verb
defuse
dee-FYOOZ
Defuse (verb) means to remove the fuse or detonator from an explosive device. Example: “The bomb squad managed to defuse the device safely.”
verb
1
To remove the fuse or detonator from an explosive device.
"The bomb squad managed to defuse the device safely."
2
To make a tense or dangerous situation calmer.
"The diplomats are trying to defuse the escalating crisis."
"She used humor to defuse the argument before it escalated."
"to defuse a hostage situation"
How to use defuse
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishTo take the danger out of something explosive — literally a bomb, or figuratively a tense situation.
Common mistake
Don't confuse with "diffuse," which means to spread out — "defuse a bomb" but "diffuse light."
Easily confused with
Common pairings
defuse a bomb
defuse tension
defuse the situation
Vocabulary Flow
Build your vocabulary from words like defuse.
Vocabulary Flow serves the next word, and the next — meaning, pronunciation and an example each time. Practice at your level, or learn English in your own language.
Start vocabulary practice
Word forms
- Third person singular
- defuses
- Past tense
- defused
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
The bomb squad managed to _____ the device safely.
Etymology
From de- + fuse.
Antonyms
Related words
Rhymes for defuse
See all rhymes for defuse →Frequently asked questions
What does “defuse” mean?
The word “defuse” means to remove the fuse or detonator from an explosive device. In plain terms, to take the danger out of something explosive — literally a bomb, or figuratively a tense situation.
How do you pronounce “defuse”?
“Defuse” is pronounced dee-FYOOZ (/diːˈfjuːz/ in IPA).
How do you use “defuse” in a sentence?
Here is “defuse” used in a sentence: “The bomb squad managed to defuse the device safely.”
What part of speech is “defuse”?
“Defuse” is a verb.
How many meanings does “defuse” have?
“Defuse” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: to remove the fuse or detonator from an explosive device.
