Dictionary
decriminalize
verb de·crim·i·nal·ize \(ˌ)dē-ˈkri-mə-nə-ˌlīz, -ˈkrim-nəl-\
: to make (something that is illegal) legal by changing the law
Full Definition of DECRIMINALIZE
transitive verb
: to remove or reduce the criminal classification or status of; especially : to repeal a strict ban on while keeping under some form of regulation <decriminalize the possession of marijuana>
— de·crim·i·nal·iza·tion \(ˌ)dē-ˌkri-mə-nə-lə-ˈzā-shən, -ˌkrim-nəl-\ noun
See decriminalize defined for English-language learners
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First Known Use of DECRIMINALIZE
1969
Rhymes with DECRIMINALIZE
Americanize, apotheosize, colonialize, compartmentalize, conceptualize, consolation prize, contextualize, delegitimize, demilitarize, denaturalize, departmentalize, depoliticize, desexualize, epigrammatize, etymologize, Europeanize, exteriorize, ideologize, individualize, industrialize, internationalize, legitimatize, materialize, memorialize, miniaturize, politicalize, private enterprise, professionalize, psychoanalyze, revolutionize, self-actualize, sensationalize, sentimentalize, spiritualize, underutilize, universalize
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