decriminalize

verb

de·​crim·​i·​nal·​ize (ˌ)dē-ˈkri-mə-nə-ˌlīz How to pronounce decriminalize (audio)
-ˈkrim-nəl-
decriminalized; decriminalizing; decriminalizes

transitive verb

: to remove or reduce the criminal classification or status of
especially : to repeal a strict ban on while keeping under some form of regulation
decriminalize the possession of marijuana
decriminalization noun

Examples of decriminalize in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
The European Quasi-Legalization Approach The Czech Republic has had a tolerant approach to recreational cannabis, decriminalizing small amounts since 2010. Dario Sabaghi, Forbes.com, 18 July 2025 Katie Wiseman Marijuana is not legal in Indiana, but it is decriminalized. Katie Wiseman, IndyStar, 14 July 2025 Based on these results, a pair of researchers from the University of California, San Francisco, published a related article arguing for a different treatment of the drug in the future — a treatment in which cannabis is decriminalized, but still discouraged, on the basis of heart health. Sam Walters, Discover Magazine, 17 June 2025 The group that opposed a ballot question that would have decriminalized psychedelics for mental health treatments got the most bang for their buck, campaign finance records show. Chris Van Buskirk, Boston Herald, 13 Feb. 2025 See All Example Sentences for decriminalize

Word History

First Known Use

1969, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of decriminalize was in 1969

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Cite this Entry

“Decriminalize.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/decriminalize. Accessed 25 Jul. 2025.

Legal Definition

decriminalize

transitive verb
de·​crim·​i·​nal·​ize dē-ˈkri-mən-ᵊl-ˌīz How to pronounce decriminalize (audio)
decriminalized; decriminalizing
: to remove or reduce the criminal classification or status of
decriminalization noun

More from Merriam-Webster on decriminalize

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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