Thesaurus.com
Dictionary.com
Showing results for de-escalation. Search instead for reescalatio.
Definitions

de-escalation

[dee-es-kuh-layshuhn] / ˌdiˌɛs kəˈleɪʃən /
NOUN
disarmament
Synonyms
STRONGEST
demilitarization demobilization
STRONG
conquest disablement disqualification freeze occupation pacification subjugation
WEAK
arms limitation arms reduction crippling neutralizing paralyzing rendering powerless
Antonyms
STRONG
surrender yielding
WEAK
arming buildup
NOUN
truce
Synonyms
STRONGEST
accord agreement amnesty armistice cease-fire détente lull moratorium pause peace reconciliation reprieve suspension
STRONG
break breather cessation halt intermission interval letup respite rest stay terms treaty
WEAK
olive branch temporary peace white flag wind-down
Antonyms
STRONGEST
continuation disagreement persistence war
STRONG
go start
WEAK
fight

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

What’s Next: Further de-escalation of tensions that allow for more shipments to pass through the Strait of Hormuz is a positive for Asian economies reliant on exports of chemicals and energy from the Persian Gulf.

From Barron's • Apr. 9, 2026

Stock pickers hung on President Trump’s every word for signs of de-escalation.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 8, 2026

By our count, during nine of these 10 sessions, gains were primarily driven by signs of de-escalation or compromise either pertaining to the White House’s tariffs or the conflict with Iran.

From MarketWatch • Apr. 8, 2026

Motegi called for "an early de-escalation" and "urged Iran to engage sincerely with the diplomatic efforts currently underway among the relevant countries".

From Barron's • Apr. 7, 2026

The first US-born pope has become a vocal critic of the Iran war, and has used recent public addresses to denounce global conflicts and urge de-escalation.

From BBC • Apr. 5, 2026