disengage

verb

dis·​en·​gage ˌdis-in-ˈgāj 

disengaged; disengaging; disengages

transitive verb

: to release from something that engages or involves

intransitive verb

: to release or detach oneself : withdraw

disengagement

ˌdis-in-ˈgāj-mənt 

noun

Synonyms

• clear
• disembarrass
• disentangle
• extricate
• free
• liberate
• release
• untangle

Examples of disengage in a Sentence

The two dancers moved together in a series of quick movements before disengaging and leaping apart.

Put the car in gear, and then slowly disengage the clutch while pressing on the gas pedal.

If there is a malfunction, the gears will automatically disengage.

Recent Examples on the Web

With 40% of leaders contemplating resignation due to burnout, top talent is either stepping down or disengaging, leaving organizations vulnerable to performance decline and talent gaps. —Cheryl Robinson, Forbes, 19 Feb. 2025

In October, China and India suddenly reached an agreement to disengage in the disputed border territory of Ladakh after a four-year military standoff. —Yun Sun, Foreign Affairs, 6 Feb. 2025

Students lose confidence, disengage and fall further behind. —The Editorial Board, Chicago Tribune, 5 Feb. 2025

Be prepared to leave or disengage if the situation becomes emotionally charged. —Samantha Mann, Parents, 27 Jan. 2025

Word History

Etymology

French désengager, from Middle French, from des- dis- + engager to engage

First Known Use

1611, in the meaning defined at transitive sense

Kids Definition

disengage

verb

dis·​en·​gage ˌdis-ᵊn-ˈgāj 

: to free or release from an engagement, entanglement, or burden

disengage an automobile clutch

disengagement

-mənt 

noun