Disabling
/dɪsˈeɪblɪŋ/
Definitions
Preventing or hindering something from functioning effectively; causing a loss of capability.
/dɪsˈeɪblɪŋ/
Making something unable to function effectively.
The software update disabled some of the older features.
💡 Simply: Imagine you have a toy car, and you take the batteries out. Disabling is like taking the batteries out of something, so it can't do what it's supposed to.
👶 For kids: Making something stop working.
More Examples
The injury was disabling, preventing her from working.
He made sure to disable the alarm system before entering the building.
How It's Used
"Disabling the firewall is not recommended unless you have a specific need."
"The accident left him with a disabling injury."
From Middle English *disablen*, from Old English *disāblian* 'to make unable', from *dis-* (prefix meaning 'not, opposite of') + *āblian* 'to enable'.
The word 'disable' and its derivatives have been used since the 17th century, initially related to physical capacity and later extending to technological applications.
Memory tip
Think of 'dis' as 'not' and 'able' as 'capable'. Disabling is making something not capable.
Word Origin
"to make unable"