deactivate
UK[ˌdiːˈæktɪveɪt]US[ˌdiːˈæktɪveɪt]
v
to make something such as a device or chemical process stop working
v
to remove someone from military service, especially temporarily
Morpheme Breakdown
de
act
ivate
de
remove
act
do, drive
ivate
verb suffix
Etymology
the word deactivate is a modern english formation built from classical components. the prefix "de-" comes from latin, carrying the sense of reversal or removal. it is attached to the root "act," derived from the latin verb agere, meaning "to do, drive, or set in motion," which is itself from the pie root ag- "to drive, draw out or forth, move." the suffix "-ivate" is a productive english ending used to form verbs, often from adjectives ending in "-ive." thus, the literal construction "to remove or reverse the action" logically evolved into its contemporary meanings: to switch off a device or process, or to release someone from active duty.
Analysis
Structure: de (remove) + act (do, drive) + ivate (verb suffix)
de: latin origin, a prefix meaning "off, away, down, completely," serving a reversing or negating function.
act: latin origin (from agere, "to do, drive"), serving as the core root denoting action or operation.
ivate: a complex english verb-forming suffix, often derived from latin -atus, indicating "to make or become."
Examples
please deactivate the alarm system before entering the secure area.
the software will automatically deactivate your account after 90 days of inactivity.
he was deactivated from the reserve unit following his injury.