Synonyms for

Disable

Verb / dɪˈseɪbʌl / Another word for disable — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

To make someone or something unable to do something

Synonyms & similar words

disenable enable incapacitate handicap invalid cripple incapacitate impair weaken injure harm damage debilitate paralyze prohibit prevent stop hinder interrupt block obstruct curtail restrict deprive disqualify

Synonyms by register

Formal

incapacitate impair cripple render inoperative

Informal

shut down turn off stop put out of action

Literary

unman disarm enfeeble

Antonyms

enable activate empower allow permit authorize facilitate

Common collocations

  • disable a feature
  • disable the alarm
  • disable the system
  • disable JavaScript
  • disable comments
  • disable editing
  • disable a user

Word family

noun disability
verb disable
adjective disabled
adverb disabledly

Usage note

Often used in technical contexts to refer to turning off a function or feature. Avoid using 'disable' to mean 'make someone unable to walk' as 'disabled' is the preferred adjective in that context.

Example sentences

  1. The virus can disable your computer.
  2. The accident may disable him for months.
  3. The medicine might disable the virus.
  4. The injury may disable him from running.
  5. The new policy may disable some users from accessing the website.

Quotes

  • You can't disable pain without disabling life.
  • People with disabilities are also people with abilities.
  • A disability is not an impairment of talent or ambition.

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