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

Remember, millions of social media accounts were deactivated. — John Tamny, Forbes.com, 1 July 2026

The government initially reported more than 5 million children had accounts removed, deactivated or restricted after the ban became law. — ABC News, 3 July 2026

In the wake of the allegations, Gilbert deactivated her accounts on Instagram and Threads and did not return to social media until May 12. — Shania Russell, Entertainment Weekly, 23 June 2026

Following the Illinois Secretary of State’s audit, some communities, like Evanston and Oak Park, deactivated their Flock cameras and ended their agreements with the company. — Jennifer Johnson, Chicago Tribune, 15 June 2026