defang

verb

de·​fang (ˌ)dē-ˈfaŋ How to pronounce defang (audio)
defanged; defanging; defangs

transitive verb

: to make harmless or less powerful

Examples of defang 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.
Going there, briefly and on purpose, often defangs it. Angela Haupt, Time, 8 May 2026 The Nuggets of three years ago would have defanged the Wolves. Troy Renck, Denver Post, 2 May 2026 Civil authorities believe that the overwhelming public backlash against Hezbollah presents a unique opportunity to defang and control the group; the country’s military brass fears that an order to disarm the militia could split their troops and even lead to civil conflict. Hussein Ibish, The Atlantic, 23 Apr. 2026 Others have hinted at costs for Beirut if the government tries to defang Hezbollah. David Brennan, ABC News, 23 Apr. 2026 See All Example Sentences for defang

Word History

First Known Use

1919, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of defang was in 1919

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Defang.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/defang. Accessed 11 May. 2026.

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