1. to remove the sex organs of a male animal, especially to prevent reproduction
Usage: veterinary; agricultural
2. to deprive of strength, power, or effectiveness
Usage: figurative

Examples

• The veterinarian will castrate the young bull next week.
• Farmers often castrate male cattle to make them easier to handle.
• The new regulations effectively castrate the committee’s authority.
• Critics argued that the amendments would castrate the proposed legislation.
• The ranch hands castrated the colts in early spring.
• Budget cuts have castrated the department’s ability to function properly.