deperm

transitive verb

de·​perm

(ˈ)dē¦pərm

-ed/-ing/-s

: to demagnetize partly (a ship's steel hull) as a precaution against magnetic mines by surrounding in dry dock with a large coil through which is sent an alternating current very strong at first but gradually diminishing in intensity compare degauss

Word History

Etymology

de- + permanent magnetism

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