How Do You Spell DEVOCALISE?

1. Devocalise (also spelled devocalize) is a verb that refers to the act of removing or disabling a person or an animal's vocal cords or altering them to reduce or eliminate their ability to produce sound. This is commonly done through surgical procedures, such as vocal cordectomy or vocal cord paralysis, which render the vocal cords unable to vibrate effectively. Devocalisation can also refer to other methods, such as the application of chemical substances or the use of devices that may cause atrophy or damage to the vocal cords.

   Devocalisation is typically performed on animals, such as dogs, cats, or birds, with the intention of reducing or eliminating their ability to vocalize. This procedure may be undertaken for various reasons, including reducing noise levels, preventing disturbances or complaints from neighbors, or correcting behavior problems. However, it is a highly controversial practice that has faced criticism from animal welfare organizations, veterinary professionals, and many individuals.

   It is important to note that devocalisation is considered unethical by many due to the potential physical and psychological harm it can cause to animals. The procedure can lead to complications, such as chronic pain, respiratory issues, swallowing difficulties, or quality of life impairment. Additionally, removing an animal's ability to vocalize may impede their natural communication and expression, which are fundamental aspects of their wellbeing. Consequently, many countries and jurisdictions have placed restrictions or outright bans on devocalisation procedures, advocating for alternative methods to address behavioral issues or manage noise concerns.

The word "devocalise" is derived from the combination of two Latin roots: "de" meaning "remove" or "take away" and "vocalis" meaning "vocal" or "voice". These roots form the verb "devocalisare" in Late Latin, which means "to remove the voice" or "to make voiceless". Over time, this verb evolved into the word "devocalize" in English, which refers to the act of surgically removing or disabling a creature's vocal cords, making it unable to produce sound.

Conjugate verb Devocalise