demilitarize

verb

(ˌ)dē-ˈmi-lə-tə-ˌrīz How to pronounce demilitarize (audio)
Definition of demilitarizenext
as in to disarm
to reduce the size and strength of the armed forces of the two nations agreed to demilitarize themselves reciprocally in hopes of avoiding war

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms

Example Sentences

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.
Recent Examples of demilitarize Somebody has to then-- demilitarize Gaza. — CBS News, 10 May 2026 Then there is the intent to demilitarize Ukraine. — Olivier Kempf, Harpers Magazine, 24 Mar. 2026 That phase includes limited border reopenings, efforts to demilitarize Gaza and discussions over postwar governance. — Michael Dorgan, FOXNews.com, 31 Jan. 2026 Zelensky has said that Ukrainian forces would be willing to leave the eastern part of the country if Russian troops also withdraw and the area becomes demilitarized, with an international coalition monitoring the region. — Mabinty Quarshie, The Washington Examiner, 28 Dec. 2025 See All Example Sentences for demilitarize
Recent Examples of Synonyms for demilitarize
  1. disarm
  2. demobilize
Verb
  • But little progress has been made towards implementing a deal to end the conflict, which includes terms for Hamas to disarm and Israel to withdraw its troops.
    — Arkansas Online, Arkansas Online, 4 Oct. 2026
  • Experts, including Higel, are doubtful that the Iraqi government will be able to disarm the Iran-loyal groups even if war between Iran and the US ends.
    — Sarah Tamimi, CNN Money, 30 Sep. 2026
Definition of disarm
Verb
  • The group’s 40,000 fighters promised to demobilize and join civilian life.
    — Teresa Cerojano, Los Angeles Times, 14 Sep. 2026
  • In fact, Leon Kauffer and Emile Souter were both demobilized French aviators in their early 20s, and well out of their depth.
    — Leah Dolan, CNN Money, 9 Sep. 2026
Definition of demobilize

Browse Nearby Words

demilitarization
demilitarize
demilitarized
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Cite this Entry

“Demilitarize.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/demilitarize. Accessed 8 Oct. 2026.

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