defuse

//dɪˈfjuːz//
B2Frequency Level 12Neutral
Visual representation of defuse

Verb

defuseInfinitive
defusePresent tense
defusedPast tense
defusedPast participle
defusingPresent participle
defusesThird-person singular
1

To remove the fuse from an explosive device to prevent it from detonating.

The bomb squad carefully defused the explosive device.

2

To reduce the danger or tension in a difficult or volatile situation.

The manager tried to defuse the tension between the two employees.