1. a device that removes or neutralizes magnetic fields, especially one used to erase data from magnetic storage media or to demagnetize equipment
Usage: technical; commonly used in computing and data security contexts
2. a coil or apparatus used on ships to neutralize the magnetic field of the vessel to prevent detection by magnetic mines
Usage: nautical; military; historical

Examples

• The IT department used a degausser to securely erase all data from the old hard drives before disposal.
• Before recycling the magnetic tape, we ran it through a degausser to ensure no sensitive information remained.
• The degausser on the naval vessel protected it from magnetic mine detection during wartime.
• A degausser is essential equipment in any facility that handles classified magnetic storage media.
• The technician activated the degausser to remove the residual magnetic charge from the equipment.