defund

verb

de·​fund (ˌ)dē-ˈfənd How to pronounce defund (audio)
defunded; defunding; defunds
Synonyms of defundnext

transitive verb

: to withdraw funding from

Examples of defund in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Corruption scandals of the kind Milei vowed to eradicate upon taking office have struck a nerve against the backdrop of his efforts to defund education, health care and social assistance. ABC News, 11 June 2026 The Yolo County Board of Supervisors voted Tuesday to lay off 26 employees, eliminate 124 vacant positions and defund — but retain — one position as part of an effort to balance the county’s 2026-27 budget. Daniel Lempres, Sacbee.com, 9 June 2026 Earlier this year, Matter helped lead another controversial initiative, to defund public media, which was defeated. Jessi Jezewska Stevens, New Yorker, 8 June 2026 Spitzer also referenced the administration’s successful effort to defund National Public Radio and its lawsuits against various news outlets. Brieanna J. Frank, USA Today, 1 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for defund

Word History

First Known Use

1948, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of defund was in 1948

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Cite this Entry

“Defund.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/defund. Accessed 20 Jun. 2026.

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