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divest

verb

/daɪˈvɛst/v

IPA:

Dictionary definition of divest

To strip an individual or entity of their authority, privileges, or belongings.
"The government intends to divest the corporation of its monopoly status."

Detailed meaning of divest

This can be done for various reasons, including legal, financial, ethical, or political considerations. When authorities or institutions divest someone of their power or rights, it typically involves the removal of certain responsibilities or privileges, potentially due to misconduct, legal violations, or a change in circumstances. Similarly, in a financial context, divestment can mean selling off assets or investments to reduce one's holdings or financial exposure. Overall, "divest" underscores the act of intentionally removing or taking away certain rights, authority, or possessions from an individual or entity, often as a consequence of specific actions, decisions, or circumstances.

Example sentences containing divest

1. The company decided to divest its non-core assets to focus on its main business.
2. She made a conscious effort to divest herself of negative thoughts and embrace positivity.
3. The organization plans to divest its holdings in fossil fuel companies to support renewable energy.
4. They chose to divest from unethical suppliers and seek more socially responsible alternatives.
5. The billionaire philanthropist decided to divest a significant portion of his wealth to charitable causes.
6. The university has pledged to divest its endowment from companies involved in human rights abuses.

History and etymology of divest

The verb 'divest' has its etymological origins in Latin. It is derived from the Latin word 'divestire,' which combines 'dis-' meaning 'away from' and 'vestire' meaning 'to clothe' or 'to dress.' Therefore, 'divest' can be understood as the act of removing or stripping away something, akin to removing clothing. In its modern usage, 'divest' refers to the action of stripping an individual or entity of their authority, privileges, possessions, or investments. It implies a deliberate and often systematic process of relinquishing control or ownership. The etymology of 'divest' underscores the notion of shedding or removing, highlighting the action of reducing or eliminating one's involvement or holdings in a particular matter or entity.

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Further usage examples of divest

1. The investor decided to divest from the failing company before its stock value plummeted further.
2. The government is considering legislation that would require banks to divest from risky investments.
3. It's essential for individuals to divest from harmful habits and embrace healthier lifestyle choices.
4. The company's decision to divest from overseas operations resulted in significant cost savings.
5. Environmental activists have been pressuring pension funds to divest from environmentally damaging industries.
6. The shareholders voted to divest from the underperforming division and allocate resources elsewhere.
7. The organization's ethical investment policy prohibits investing in companies involved in animal testing, prompting them to divest from certain stocks.
8. The entrepreneur decided to divest her ownership stake in the company to pursue a new venture.
9. The decision to divest from the manufacturing sector and focus on service-based industries proved to be a wise move.
10. The company's decision to divest from its retail division allowed it to concentrate on its core business of manufacturing.
11. The government's efforts to divest from state-owned enterprises have resulted in increased efficiency and competitiveness.
12. The shareholders urged the company to divest from its controversial partnerships to protect its reputation.
13. The court ordered him to divest himself of his shares in the company.
14. The new policy will divest employees of certain benefits.
15. The union is calling on the government to divest itself of its ownership stake in the industry.
16. The law would divest the state of its authority to regulate certain industries.
17. The community rallied to divest the mayor of his authority after a series of controversial decisions.