Unarm

To remove weapons from; to deprive of protection or means of defense, whether physical or metaphorical. This can refer to literal disarming of soldiers or figuratively to rendering someone vulnerable by taking away their advantages, such as their emotional resilience or professional standing. It implies a reduction in power, a stripping away of preparedness, leaving one open to attack or influence. It often carries a connotation of pacifism or defusing a potentially hostile situation.

Unarm meaning with examples

• The peace treaty stipulated that all soldiers would unarm before entering the demilitarized zone. The soldiers complied, laying down their rifles and ammunition to prevent further conflict. This action signified a crucial step towards establishing a peaceful environment, hoping to reduce future confrontations and misunderstandings to secure a long-lasting resolution, creating a space of safety and trust.
• The lawyer knew he had to unarm his opponent by discrediting their key witness before the trial started. He successfully exposed inconsistencies in the witness's testimony, undermining their credibility. The judge dismissed the testimony, leaving his opponent's case weak. This strategy changed the balance of power, offering a path to win the trial, making his argument stronger and more likely to prevail.
• Therapists teach people strategies to unarm their own negative emotions, promoting better mental well-being. By identifying and challenging harmful thought patterns, individuals can mitigate the damage caused by anxiety. Techniques like deep breathing exercises, mindfulness, and positive self-talk create resilience. Developing inner peace, and making the mind a safe place with the ability to self soothe, is also very helpful.
• The political commentator accused the politician of attempting to unarm the opposition by spreading misinformation. The use of deceit to damage rivals' reputations resulted in a loss of the public's faith. The accusations fueled division, eroded trust, and hindered constructive political discourse. This kind of behavior weakened the ability to discuss things properly and created a situation where progress was hard to make.