English · Word Candidate

deploy

/dɪˈplɔɪ/

Proposed by a contributor, not yet supported by evidence.

Also seen as: deploys · deploying · deployed

Sense 1

Meaning · English

To prepare and arrange (originally military unit or units, i.e., to array troops) for use.

Verb

"Deploy two units of infantry along the enemy's flank," the general ordered.

Usage example from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01)

Sources & notes

Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01 via kaikki.org).

Meaning · English

To unfold, open, or otherwise become ready for use.

Verb

He waited tensely for his parachute to deploy.

Usage example from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01)

Sources & notes

Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01 via kaikki.org).

Meaning · English

Deployment.

Noun

Rolling back the bad deploy will usually solve the immediate production problem, but your team isn't done yet.

Usage example from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01)

Sources & notes

Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01 via kaikki.org).

Meaning · English

Deployment.

NounRegister: dated

Sources & notes

Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01 via kaikki.org).

What does “deploy” mean?

To prepare and arrange (originally military unit or units, i.e., to array troops) for use.

Is “deploy” formal or informal?

No register label has been reviewed yet — treat it as neutral and check the usage notes above.