WordGarden.iodisable
B1Pronunciation
UK
- /dˌɪsˈeɪbəl/
US
- /dɪˈseɪbəl/
Meanings
Verb
to turn off or deactivate a digital feature, account, device, or setting
to make a machine, tool, system, or defense unable to work
to injure or impair someone so they cannot move, work, or function normally
Beyond the definition
To disable something doesn’t always mean breaking it. It often means making it stop working, for a short time or forever. Think of a setting on your phone—you’re not destroying the feature, just turning it off. However, "disable" can also relate to injury or illness: someone may be disabled if it limits their physical or mental abilities. Context is key! A knight might disable an opponent in battle (so they can’t fight), while a technician disables a security system (so it won’t run).
The word "disable" carries significant weight, and its meaning shifts depending on the context. At its core, to disable means to take away power, ability, or normal function. It is often a deliberate action—like disabling an alarm system to enter a building or disabling comments on a social media post to stop abuse. In these instances, "disable" implies turning something off or making a system not work.
However, "disable" is also used around physical or mental impairment. A person is described as disabled when they have a condition that substantially limits one or more major life activities. It is crucial to use this term with sensitivity and respect, because it points to real barriers while recognizing a person’s inherent worth and potential. Many people also use a social model of disability: the environment can create barriers that can disable someone.
Historically, the word also carried a legal weight, meaning to deprive someone of legal rights or status—such as being disabled from voting or holding office. While this specific legal usage is less common today, it highlights the word's broader theme of removing capability. Whether you are discussing technology, health, or legal standing, "disable" always points to a loss of power or function, and understanding that nuance is vital for using the word accurately.
Examples
- 1
App settings
You can disable notifications in the app settings.
- 2
Website access
The website asked me to disable my ad blocker.
- 3
Account security
If you enter the wrong password too many times, the system will disable your account.
- 4
Safety controls
The emergency switch disables the machine immediately.
More examplesFewer examples
- 5
Network attack
A virus can disable an entire network in minutes.
- 6
Physical injury
The crash didn't kill him, but it permanently disabled his left leg.
See also
Similar
- deactivate
- turn off
Shades of meaning
- shut down
- render inoperable
- block
Contrast
Used with (collocations)
- disable a feature
- disable an account
- disable notifications
Word family
Explore
- configuration
- access control
Forms and spellings
4 forms open this card.
Main spelling
- disableverb
Forms
- disabledpast tenseverb
- disabling-ing formverb
- disablesverb