Disarm

To take away weapons from someone or a group of people, or to reduce or eliminate a military's weaponry. More figuratively, to remove someone's defenses, causing them to become less hostile or suspicious. This can involve negotiation, strategy, or even a display of vulnerability. Disarming someone implies making them feel safe, comfortable, and less likely to engage in conflict, whether physical or emotional. The aim of disarming is to prevent harm or facilitate a peaceful resolution, either in a military context, a social interaction, or an argument. It can refer to both the physical act of confiscating weapons, and the psychological act of calming down a person in a confrontational situation. Finally, it may include the disabling of explosive devices.

Disarm meaning with examples

• The peacekeepers worked tirelessly to disarm the rebels, confiscating their rifles and ammunition. This was a crucial step in establishing a safe zone and allowing humanitarian aid to reach the civilian population. They hoped the disarmament would lead to a ceasefire, allowing the warring factions to begin peace talks. It was a dangerous but necessary mission to quell the violence. The process was slow but they hoped effective.
• Her disarming smile and genuine interest immediately put the nervous interviewee at ease. The job candidate's friendly demeanor and ability to connect made the interviewer feel comfortable. Her open body language and attentiveness helped to reduce any initial tension and created a positive atmosphere. Her approach created an environment in which the candidate could really shine.
• The bomb squad successfully managed to disarm the explosive device before it could detonate. The technicians, wearing protective gear, worked with extreme precision, carefully disabling the detonator. This averted a major catastrophe, saving countless lives and preventing widespread destruction of the downtown area. They felt tremendous relief after successfully completing the delicate operation.
• During negotiations, the mediator attempted to disarm the opposing sides by highlighting their common goals. By finding the points of agreement he encouraged them to consider each other's perspective and find common ground. He stressed the importance of compromise and emphasized that collaboration would ultimately benefit both parties. This facilitated a crucial breakthrough, leading to a preliminary agreement.