disarm
UK: dɪsˈɑːm | US: dɪsˈɑːrm
vt. to remove weapons or reduce military forces
vt. to make someone less hostile or suspicious
vi. (of a country or group) to reduce or abolish armed forces
The word "disarm" combines the prefix "dis-" (from Latin, meaning "apart" or "remove") with the root "arm" (from Old French "arme," meaning "weapon"). The prefix "dis-" negates or reverses the action of the root, creating the sense of "removing weapons." Historically, the term evolved in Middle English from Old French influences, reflecting the literal act of depriving someone of arms (weapons) and later extending metaphorically to reducing hostility or defenses.
The treaty required both nations to disarm their nuclear weapons.
Her honest smile helped disarm his initial distrust.
The government pledged to disarm rebel forces in the region.
A sincere apology can disarm even the angriest critic.
After the war, efforts were made to disarm and reintegrate soldiers into society.