What does defund mean?
Defund is a verb that means to withdraw or remove funding from an organization, institution, or project. This can be done by a government, a funding agency, or any entity that provides financial support. The term is often used in a critical or disapproving way, suggesting that the decision to defund is motivated by a desire to undermine or restrict the activities of the organization or project being defunded. For example, a government might defund a program it no longer considers effective or a priority. Understanding the implications of defund is essential in discussions about budget allocations, policy changes, and the impact on various sectors of society.
verbTo withdraw or remove funding from an organization, institution, or project.
- To stop providing financial support or funding to something.
- To reduce or eliminate the financial resources of an organization or activity.
"The government decided to defund the arts program due to budget cuts."
"The charity was forced to close after the government decided to defund it."
"The university's research project was defunded due to lack of results."
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Etymology of defund
The word defund is derived from the prefix de- meaning 'to remove' or 'to take away' and the root fund, which comes from the Latin fundus, meaning 'bottom' or 'foundation', and later in English referring to a sum of money set aside for a specific purpose. The term has been in use since the 17th century, evolving from simply meaning to deprive of funds to encompassing a broader range of financial withdrawal or reduction.
Usage notes
Defund can have a negative connotation, implying a deliberate attempt to hinder or restrict an organization's activities. It is often used in the context of politics, government funding, and social services.