1. to remove or disable the fuse of an explosive device
Usage: also spelled 'defuse'; technical/military context
2. to reduce the tension or danger in a situation; to make something less likely to cause conflict
Usage: figurative use; also spelled 'defuse'

Examples

• The bomb squad worked carefully to defuze the device before it could explode.
• Her calm words helped defuze the angry argument between the two neighbors.
• The diplomat's skillful negotiation defuzed the international crisis.
• Experts were called in to defuze the explosive found at the construction site.
• He tried to defuze the tension in the room with a joke.
• The security team managed to defuze the threat without incident.