divest

verb

Etymology: Alteration of devest, from Middle French devester (“strip of possessions”), from Old French desvestir, from des- (“dis-”) + vestir (“to clothe”).

1. To strip, deprive, or dispossess (someone) of something (such as a right, passion, privilege, or prejudice).

   “You shall never divest me of my right to free speech.”

   “When I wake up, I make a point to divest myself of all my prejudices, ready to start the day.”

2. To sell off or be rid of through sale, especially of a subsidiary.

   “In 2011, the company divested an 81% majority stake in its foreign subsidiary.”

   “Glasgow will become the first university in Europe to divest from fossil fuels.”

3. To undress.

   “Having divested the child he kissed her gently and gave her a little pat to make her stand off.”