'defuse' definitions:
Definition of 'defuse'
From: GCIDE
- defuse \de*fuse"\ (d[-e]*f[=u]z"), v. t. [Cf. Diffuse.]
- 1. To disorder; to make shapeless. [Obs.] --Shak. [1913 Webster]
- 2. To remove the fuse from; to deactivate (a bomb or other explosive device) or make it ineffective.
- Syn: deactivate. [WordNet 1.5 +PJC]
- 3. To make less dangerous; as, to defuse a tense confrontation between demonstrators and police. [PJC]
Synonyms of 'defuse'
From: Moby Thesaurus
- allay,
- appease,
- calm,
- conciliate,
- cool,
- dulcify,
- lay,
- lay the dust,
- mollify,
- pacify,
- placate,
- pour balm on,
- propitiate,
- smooth,
- smooth down,
- smooth over,
- soothe,
- tranquilize