Qualitatively speaking there are two different deterritorializing movements: absolute and relative. Philosophy is an example of absolute deterritorialization and capital is an example of relative deterritorialization. Absolute deterritorialization is a way of moving and as such it has nothing to do with how fast or slow deterritorializing movements are; such movements are immanent, differentiated and ontologically prior to the movements of relative deterritorialization. Relative deterritorialization moves towards fixity and as such it occurs not on a molecular but molar plane as an actual movement. Put succinctly, absolute deterritorializing movements are virtual, moving through relative deterritorializing movements that are actual.

— Adrian Parr, "The Deleuze Dictionary" (Edinburgh University Press 2010)

the best definition of deterritorialization is the decontextualization of something or a theft of a bit of code that then resituates that thing elsewhere.

Codes are always functional. The tree bark serves a particular function for the tree, the greenness of leaves serves a particular function for leaves or is a bi-product of functions like photosynthesis. In stealing a bit of code, quality is divorced from function and takes on a new function for these animals. There is not representation, resemblance, or imitation, but rather the formation of a new set of functions.

So, deterritorialization can also be said to constitute a two-step operation of appropriation and re-purposing, whether deliberate or accidental — which is also a well-studied evolutionary phenomenon (of a creative accident radically changing the course of events).