Standard Lemma guide

deallocate

verb · 2 senses · updated from the 2026-07-25 local source snapshot

Definitions and examples are grouped by meaning. Pronunciation, history, word forms, translations, descendants, synonyms, antonyms, derived terms, and related words appear whenever the source provides them.

Sound

Pronunciation

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  • UK: /diːˈæləkeɪt/

1

verb

Meaning 1

To remove from the set of resources put aside for (allocated to) a particular user or purpose.

Definition source: English Wiktionary via Wiktextract

Usage: transitive

Examples

  • Empty out your locker; it will be deallocated at the end of the day.

Meaning relationships

Synonyms: none provided

Antonyms: none provided

2

verb

Meaning 2

To return previously allocated memory.

Definition source: English Wiktionary via Wiktextract

Usage: transitive

Topics: computing, engineering, mathematics, natural-sciences, physical-sciences, sciences

Examples

  • Computer programs should deallocate memory they no longer need, releasing it back to the system.

Meaning relationships

Synonyms: none provided

Antonyms: none provided

History

Etymology

Etymology tree Proto-Indo-European *de Proto-Indo-European *-h1 Proto-Indo-European *déh1 Proto-Italic *dē Latin dē Latin dē-der. English de- English allocate English deallocate From de- + allocate.