decriminalize

verb

de·​crim·​i·​nal·​ize (ˌ)dē-ˈkri-mə-nə-ˌlīz How to pronounce decriminalize (audio)
-ˈkrim-nəl-
decriminalized; decriminalizing; decriminalizes

transitive verb

: to remove or reduce the criminal classification or status of
especially : to repeal a strict ban on while keeping under some form of regulation
decriminalize the possession of marijuana
decriminalization noun

Examples of decriminalize in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Psilocybin, the psychedelic compound found in magic mushrooms, became the first hallucinogenic substance to be decriminalized in the U.S. after Denver voted to legalize possession of it in 2019. Alice Gibbs, MSNBC Newsweek, 16 May 2025 In California, along with states like Oregon, District of Columbia, and Colorado, psilocybin is decriminalized; in many other states like New York, Pennsylvania, and West Virginia, decriminalization is up for active legislation. Jill Di Donato, SELF, 14 May 2025 There were educational talks, live music and free samples of mushroom products – all possible because psilocybin is now decriminalized in Colorado. Tiney Ricciardi, The Denver Post, 13 Mar. 2025 Jamaica decriminalized small amounts of cannabis in 2014, granting Rastafarians the unique right to use and cultivate marijuana for religious purposes. Tribune Content Agency, Mercury News, 6 May 2025 See All Example Sentences for decriminalize

Word History

First Known Use

1969, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of decriminalize was in 1969

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Decriminalize.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/decriminalize. Accessed 29 May. 2025.

Legal Definition

decriminalize

transitive verb
de·​crim·​i·​nal·​ize dē-ˈkri-mən-ᵊl-ˌīz How to pronounce decriminalize (audio)
decriminalized; decriminalizing
: to remove or reduce the criminal classification or status of
decriminalization noun

More from Merriam-Webster on decriminalize

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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