decriminalize
verb
de·crim·i·nal·ize
(ˌ)dē-ˈkri-mə-nə-ˌlīz 
-ˈkrim-nəl-
decriminalized; decriminalizing; decriminalizes
: to remove or reduce the criminal classification or status of
especially
: to repeal a strict ban on while keeping under some form of regulation
decriminalize the possession of marijuana
Examples of decriminalize in a Sentence
Recent Examples on the Web
Since the passing of legislation, like Senate Bill 946, which decriminalized sidewalk vending, the county has seen an uptick in these businesses, the ordinance states.
—
Emma Hall, Sacramento Bee, 28 Jan. 2025
Still, other locations have decriminalized or legalized these mushrooms.
—Lydia Kariuki, The Mercury News, 4 Dec. 2024
Until now, Dallas was one of the largest U.S. cities that has not decriminalized cannabis possession.
—Brandi D. Addison, Austin American-Statesman, 6 Nov. 2024
As for recreational cannabis, its production, import, and sale are prohibited, while consumption and personal cultivation by adults in private spaces are decriminalized.
—Dario Sabaghi, Forbes, 8 Oct. 2024
See all Example Sentences for decriminalize 
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Emma Hall, Sacramento Bee, 28 Jan. 2025
Still, other locations have decriminalized or legalized these mushrooms.
—Lydia Kariuki, The Mercury News, 4 Dec. 2024
Until now, Dallas was one of the largest U.S. cities that has not decriminalized cannabis possession.
—Brandi D. Addison, Austin American-Statesman, 6 Nov. 2024
As for recreational cannabis, its production, import, and sale are prohibited, while consumption and personal cultivation by adults in private spaces are decriminalized.
—Dario Sabaghi, Forbes, 8 Oct. 2024
See all Example Sentences for decriminalize
Dictionary Entries Near decriminalize
Cite this Entry
“Decriminalize.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/decriminalize. Accessed 7 Feb. 2025.
Copy CitationLegal Definition
decriminalize
transitive verb
de·crim·i·nal·ize
dē-ˈkri-mən-ᵊl-ˌīz
decriminalized; decriminalizing
: to remove or reduce the criminal classification or status of
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