Defuse - Meaning, Definition & English Examples
Definition:
To reduce tension or danger by calming a situation or removing a threat.
Synonyms:
alleviate, mitigate, calm, pacify
Part of Speech:
verb
Antonyms:
escalate, provoke
Common Collocations:
defuse tension, defuse a bomb, defuse conflict, defuse anger
Derivatives:
defuser, defusing
Usage Tips:
Use "defuse" for reducing tension or danger; don’t confuse with "diffuse" (spread out).
Common Phrases:
defuse the situation, defuse a crisis, defuse an argument
Etymology:
From "de-" (reverse) + "fuse" (explosive device), originally referring to disarming bombs.
Examples:
- 1. The police officer tried to defuse the argument calmly.
- 2. She used humor to defuse the tense meeting.
- 3. Experts were called to defuse the unexploded bomb safely.
- 4. His apology helped defuse her anger quickly.