Disengage/ˌdɪsɪnˈɡeɪdʒ/ Definition 1 of 3Pro Tip 1/3Physical Separation Focuses on detaching physical objects from each other. After the speech, the mayor disengaged his microphone from the stand. Pro Tip 2/3Literal Use Usually used in a very literal, concrete sense, referring to tangible things. The mechanic showed her how to disengage the brake system. Pro Tip 3/3Action-Oriented Implies an active effort or action to separate things. Use the lever to disengage the gears before servicing the equipment.