Disable

Disable is a verb meaning to render something unable to operate or to prevent its normal function. It can refer to preventing a device, feature, or system from working, or to depriving a person of a capability. In computing and electronics, to disable a feature or device is to deactivate it so that it does not respond to input or perform its usual tasks.

The word derives from the prefix dis- meaning not and from able, with roots in Latin, and has been used in English since the Middle Ages to express removal of capability.

Common uses include disabling software features to prevent misuse, disabling user accounts for security reasons, or disabling hardware components during troubleshooting. In hardware, a physical switch or a BIOS setting may disable power, ports, or functions. In software, commands or options may disable functionality without uninstalling the program.

Language note: When discussing people, many guides prefer to emphasize the person rather than the limitation, using phrases such as "people with disabilities." The verb disable describes an action, not a person; the adjective disabled is commonly used for people or as a formal label in some contexts, but terminology varies by culture and community guidelines.

In safety, security, or maintenance contexts, systems may be intentionally disabled to prevent harm, protect data, or reduce risk while updates are applied or faults are investigated.

See also: enable, enablement, disablement, accessibility, security.