[de.ploy] vb [F deployer, lit., to unfold, fr. OF desploier, fr. des- dis- + ploier, plier to fold--more at ply] vt (1786) 1 a: to extend (a military unit) esp. in width b: to place in battle formation or appropriate positions
2: to spread out, utilize, or arrange esp. strategically ~ vi: to move in being deployed -- de.ploy.able adj -- de.ploy.ment n