Definition

To make something less dangerous or tense, often by calming a situation or removing a threat.

Example

The negotiator worked hard to defuse the tension between the two countries.

Tense Forms

Conversation

I heard the meeting got pretty heated today.

Yeah, it was tense, but Mark managed to defuse the situation.

That's good to hear; it’s important to keep things calm.

Absolutely! He really knows how to handle those moments.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Defuse → It is formed from "de-" (meaning down or away) and "fusus" (from the Latin "fundere", meaning to pour). The word "defuse" means to remove the fuse from an explosive device, effectively taking it away or down from a state of danger.

Memory Tip

Think of 'taking away' ('de-') something that 'pours' out danger ('fusus') — that's why defuse means to remove the threat.

Visually Confused Words