1. to make inactive or ineffective; to stop something from working or functioning
Usage: often used in scientific or technical contexts

Examples

• The scientist used heat to inactivate the virus in the vaccine.
• The security system will inactivate your access card after three failed attempts.
• Certain chemicals can inactivate enzymes in the body.
• The technician needs to inactivate the alarm before performing maintenance.
• UV light can inactivate harmful bacteria in water.
• The medication works by inactivating specific proteins in cancer cells.