de·bug I. \(ˈ)dē+\transitive verb Etymology:de- + bug (insect) 1.: to remove insects from < debug squash vines > 2.: to detect and eliminate errors in or malfunctions of < debug a new airplane before it is flown > II. transitive verb 1.: to remove a concealed microphone or wiretapping device from < debug a room > 2.: to make (concealed microphones) ineffective by electronic means