To remove the fangs or venomous attributes from a creature or to metaphorically diminish the harmful potency or threat of a person, idea, or situation. This term is often used in various contexts, including discussions about politics, rhetoric, and animal handling, emphasizing the action of reducing danger or hostility.
Defang meaning with examples
- To defang the debate, the moderator encouraged both sides to focus on common ground rather than personal attacks, aiming to foster a more constructive dialogue that would be beneficial for all participants and the audience.
- In an effort to defang the policy’s severe implications, the lawmakers proposed several amendments that would soften the impact on vulnerable groups while still maintaining the essence of the original legislation.
- The wildlife advocate worked tirelessly to defang the public’s fear of snakes by creating educational programs that highlighted the importance of these creatures in the ecosystem and how to coexist with them safely.
- In her speech, the candidate attempted to defang her opponent's aggressive critique by framing it as a misunderstanding of her policies, which allowed her to redirect the conversation toward her vision for positive change.