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.
Anti-gay laws are in place in various conservative African countries including Senegal, Uganda and Malawi, though some others, including South Africa, Botswana and Angola, have decriminalized LGBTQ practices or enacted protective measures. CNN Money, 2 Sep. 2025 Luckily for him, marijuana has been decriminalized. Bethy Squires, Vulture, 21 Aug. 2025 It’s been decriminalized or legalized in a handful of states and cities, with New Mexico recently joining this list, creating a legal pathway for the medical use of psilocybin. Benjamin Adams, Forbes.com, 19 Aug. 2025 Salzman died in 2018, the year before Denver became the first city in the U.S. to decriminalize psilocybin. Tiney Ricciardi, Denver Post, 6 Aug. 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 8 Sep. 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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