decriminalize

verb

de·​crim·​i·​nal·​ize (ˌ)dē-ˈkri-mə-nə-ˌlīz 

-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

(ˌ)dē-ˌkri-mə-nə-lə-ˈzā-shən 

-ˌkrim-nəl-

noun

Examples of decriminalize in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

While psilocybin remains heavily regulated compared to marijuana, it is decriminalized in Colorado, and licensed facilitators will oversee therapy sessions. —Dan Perry, Newsweek, 2 Jan. 2025

The move comes after legislation passed the state senate in 2018 that decriminalized sidewalk vending. —Isha Trivedi, The Mercury News, 30 Dec. 2024

Nelson’s comments came in a statement supporting Proposition R, a Dallas ballot initiative to decriminalize marijuana that will appear on the November general election ballot. —A.j. Herrington, Forbes, 14 Oct. 2024

Despite marijuana products being at least partially decriminalized in 39 states. —Eli Cahan, Rolling Stone, 22 Sep. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1969, in the meaning defined above

Legal Definition

decriminalize

transitive verb

de·​crim·​i·​nal·​ize dē-ˈkri-mən-ᵊl-ˌīz 

decriminalized; decriminalizing

: to remove or reduce the criminal classification or status of

decriminalization

dē-ˌkri-mən-ᵊl-ə-ˈzā-shən 

noun