rebuttal

noun

re·​but·​tal ri-ˈbə-tᵊl How to pronounce rebuttal (audio)
: the act of rebutting especially in a legal suit
also : argument or proof that rebuts

Examples of rebuttal in a Sentence

an effective rebuttal to her claim of having the gift of clairvoyance
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
The post-presidential-address rebuttal is widely seen as an opportunity for emerging party leaders to take the spotlight. Miranda Jeyaretnam, TIME, 4 Mar. 2025 Here's what Trump may say and what Democrat is delivering a rebuttal. Nicole Fallert, USA TODAY, 4 Mar. 2025 Hours after that meeting in Saudi Arabia, Mr. Trump suggested that Ukraine had started the war, a comment that brought a strong rebuttal from Mr. Zelensky on Wednesday morning. Andrew E. Kramer, New York Times, 19 Feb. 2025 In a final rebuttal, Deputy District Attorney John Lewin said the case was a simple one. Nancy Dillon, Rolling Stone, 14 Feb. 2025 See All Example Sentences for rebuttal

Word History

First Known Use

1830, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of rebuttal was in 1830

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Rebuttal.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/rebuttal. Accessed 14 Mar. 2025.

Kids Definition

rebuttal

noun
re·​but·​tal ri-ˈbət-ᵊl How to pronounce rebuttal (audio)
: the act of rebutting
also : argument or proof that rebuts

Legal Definition

rebuttal

noun
re·​but·​tal ri-ˈbət-ᵊl How to pronounce rebuttal (audio)
: the act or procedure of rebutting
also : evidence or argument that rebuts

More from Merriam-Webster on rebuttal

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