Decriminalization
Definition, Meaning & Examples
Pronunciation /diːˌkɹɪmɪnəlaɪzˈeɪʃən/ · Part of speech noun
Quick meaning: Decriminalization is a noun meaning The act of making an activity or substance no longer criminalized (no longer a crime, subject to criminal penalties, to perform or possess). (Compare legalization, which often implies regulation.).
Meaning
The act of making an activity or substance no longer criminalized (no longer a crime, subject to criminal penalties, to perform or possess). (Compare legalization, which often implies regulation.).
More Meanings
- The act of ceasing to treat a person as a criminal, by making their activities legal or no longer subjecting them to the criminal justice system (but instead possibly the mental healthcare system, etc).
Example Sentences
the decriminalization of all plant-based psychedelics
Most sex work feminists support either the legalization or the decriminalization of sex workers.
Some opponents also said federal decriminalization would contribute to more death and injury from impaired drivers using marijuana.
Word Forms
- decriminalisation
Antonyms for decriminalization
Common opposites include criminalization.
Related Words
Related dictionary entries include legalization, decriminalisation, criminalization, incrimination, criminality, legitimization.
Related Dictionary Tools
Sources & Attribution
FreeDictionaryAPI.com / Wiktionary · Original source · CC BY-SA 4.0
Dictionary data is provided by FreeDictionaryAPI.com and sourced from Wiktionary under its stated license.