Definition

To take something out of active use or service, often referring to equipment or vehicles like ships.

Example

The navy decided to decommission the old battleship after many years of service.

Tense Forms

Conversation

Did you hear they are going to decommission that old ship next month?

Yeah, it's about time! It hasn't been in service for ages.

I know, right? It's crazy how long it took to finally decommission it.

True! I hope they do something interesting with it after.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Decommission → It is formed from "de-" (meaning down or away) and "commission" (from Latin "committere", meaning to entrust or to send together). The word means to take away the commission or authority from something, effectively rendering it inactive or no longer in service.

Memory Tip

Think of 'taking away' ('de-') the 'authority' ('commission') from something, which helps you remember that decommission means to render something inactive.

Visually Confused Words