Declassification
(noun)
- The act of removing or reversing the classification of information that was previously considered confidential or classified.
- The process of removing or lifting the restrictions on access to information that was once considered sensitive.
Origin:
From the prefix de-, meaning reversal, and the word classification, meaning the act of arranging or organizing into categories.
Examples:
- The declassification of the documents was a victory for government transparency advocates.
- The declassification process can take years, as sensitive information must be carefully reviewed and redacted.
- The declassification of the files provided new insights into the activities of the intelligence agencies.
- The declassification of the report sparked controversy and heated debate among lawmakers and the public.
- The declassification of the previously secret information was a major milestone in the peace process.