1. to remove or eliminate the vocal cords of an animal, especially a dog, to prevent barking or howling
Usage: veterinary/animal care context; also called debarking
2. to deprive of voice or the ability to speak or be heard
Usage: figurative or literary use

Examples

• The veterinarian explained the procedure to devocalize the dog so it would stop barking excessively.
• Some animal welfare organizations oppose the practice of devokalizing pets.
• The authoritarian regime sought to devocalize all political opposition.
• The new policy devokalizes marginalized communities by limiting their access to media.
• Animal shelters sometimes devocalize dogs before adoption to reduce noise complaints.