v. [UN-2 3.] trans. To make unqualified; to disqualify. (Common c. 1675–1750.)
1655. Spurstowe, Weels of Salvation, 164. Earthly things defile the heart with … corrupt affections, which do unqualifie it for the reception of … precious promises.
1694. S. Johnson, Notes Past. Let. Bp. Burnet, I. 73. The Duke of York had unqualified himself for that High Office.
1709. Addison, Tatler, No. 103, ¶ 16. These particularities … in dress and behaviour … oftentimes … unqualify them from doing any Good in the World.
1794. Mrs. A. M. Bennett, Ellen, III. 72. His ill health … unqualified him to be a public [tutor].
1836. T. Erskine, Baxter’s Saint’s R., Pref. p. xxxiv. [To] unqualify the mind for present exertion.
1853. C. H. Spurgeon, in Daily News, 2 Feb. (1892), 6/1. If you think my years would unqualify me for your pulpit.
Hence Unqualifying ppl. a.
1737. Common Sense, I. 30. The most unqualifying Circumstances for any Employment, where Bribery and Corruption can possibly enter.
