Definition of "decriminalize" [decriminalize]

• To reduce or abolish criminal penalties for: decriminalize the use of marijuana. (verb-transitive)

American Heritage(R) Dictionary of the English Language, Fifth Edition. Copyright (c) 2011 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. All rights reserved.

• "January 31, 2008 at 12: 06 PM what's important is the distinction between "decriminalize" and "legalize" ... how very Republican of you to follow the Washington TIMES and ignore nuance in favor of a soundbite."
• "This wish to "decriminalize" disreputable behavior that "harms no one" - and thus remove the ultimate sanction the police can employ to maintain neighborhood order — is, we think, a mistake."
• "I believe that it is not acceptable to claim that it is enough to "decriminalize" cannabis use."