Synonyms of deactivate

deactivate

verb

(ˌ)dē-ˈak-tə-ˌvāt 

as in to kill

to cause to stop functioning

deactivate the machine carefully, or you'll risk an electric shock

Synonyms & Similar Words

• kill
• brake
• shut off
• stick
• turn off
• dismantle
• phase out
• halt
• cut off
• jam
• flick (off)
• arrest
• mothball
• stall
• draw up
• chock

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• activate
• move
• start
• trigger
• run
• drive
• power
• set off
• generate
• turn on
• propel
• push
• spark
• charge
• actuate
• fire
• fuel
• switch
• release
• launch
• crank (up)
• touch off
• discharge
• trip
• energize
• electrify
• reactivate
• recharge

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of deactivate

Klein reported that a Secret Service agent said her press pass had been deactivated. — Brian Stelter, CNN Money, 19 Sep. 2026

According to the manufacturer, the system is designed to deactivate organic medications including opioids, most illicit drugs and vape fluid in different forms like pills, liquid and patches. — Sunny Linnebur, The Conversation, 18 Sep. 2026

Screenshots allegedly from Anya's account, which has since been deactivated, were also shared widely, showing posts that spoke derogatorily about conservative activist and Turning Point USA founder Charlie Kirk. — Finch Walker, USA Today, 15 Sep. 2026

OpenAI deactivated the account, but Van Rootselaar created a second account and continued to have conversations with ChatGPT, OpenAI has said. — Shannon Bond, NPR, 2 Sep. 2026