defuse

[dee-fyooz] / diˈfyuz /

VERB

disarm; smooth over

Synonyms

STRONGEST

alleviate deactivate lessen soothe

STRONG

demilitarize diminish disable moderate mollify pacify pad restrain soften subdue weaken

Antonyms

STRONGEST

increase

STRONG

agitate aid assist enable free help incite irritate liberate release strengthen trouble upset worry

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

The former President informed the Clinton Administration that he intended to take up a prior offer from the North Koreans to visit and try to defuse the situation.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 3, 2026

If older couples start arguing about money, their tax preparer can try to defuse tensions by looking ahead and conjuring a worst-case scenario.

From MarketWatch • Mar. 5, 2026

Despite the prime minister's attempt to defuse the row, some of his own MPs are calling on him to stand down.

From BBC • Feb. 5, 2026

Regional players have pushed for diplomacy to defuse tensions.

From Barron's • Feb. 2, 2026

When Laurent spoke, his tone was soothing — trying to defuse the sudden hostility.

From "Twilight" by Stephenie Meyer