Deplatform

What does deplatform mean?

To remove a user from a social network or website

To deplatform someone is to ban (or otherwise remove) them from a social media network or other online platform. This prevents the person from sharing their opinion on the platform. People are most often deplatformed after repeatedly sharing offensive and/or dangerous opinions.

While many users have been deplatformed throughout the Internet's existence, the word deplatform gained increased prominence during the last days of U.S. President Donald Trump's (45) term. In response to Trump's support of the January 6, 2021 riot at the U.S. Capitol, some social media platforms, including Twitter and Facebook, deplatformed the President (at least temporarily). Many other users involved in or who had expressed support for the riot were also deplatformed.

Deplatforming is often linked to canceling and cancel culture. Those who have been deplatformed often claim they are being unfairly canceled. People can also be deplatformed in real life - such as when a controversial speaker is disinvited from a forum or other speaking engagement.

Example

I really wish Twitter would deplatform Elon Musk already
A sarcastic use of deplatform on Twitter
A sarcastic use of deplatform on Twitter

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Updated November 2, 2021

Deplatform definition by Slang.net

This page explains what the slang term "Deplatform" means. The definition, example, and related terms listed above have been written and compiled by the Slang.net team.

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