denialism
noun
de·ni·al·ism
di-ˈnī(-ə)l-ˌi-zəm 
dē-
: the practice of denying the existence, truth, or validity of something despite proof or strong evidence that it is real, true, or valid
This depressing tale is the latest incarnation of denialism, the systematic rejection of a body of science in favour of make-believe.—
Debora MacKenzie
Debora MacKenzieHe [Henry Puna] said climate change denialism jeopardised the future of Pacific countries: "Some are not willing to accept the stark realities."—Ben Doherty
Ben DohertyThe problem of vaccine denialism is closely tied to the problem of information and authority in the digital age. People prone to skepticism can cover themselves with layers of pseudo-science and conspiracy theories that thicken and harden like papier mache.—Michael Gerson
Michael GersonGetting accurate information across in the face of this science denialism is something of a minefield, as there is evidence that attempts to correct misinformation may backfire, further entrenching the beliefs of science deniers instead.—Cathleen O'Grady
Cathleen O'GradyExamples of denialism in a Sentence
Recent Examples on the Web
And yet, a year and a half later, social media accounts with millions of followers promote rape denialism online.
—Diana Fersko, New York Daily News, 11 Apr. 2025
But some of those rough edges Stewart called out remain; the state is also ground zero for election denialism and conspiracy theories.
—Bill Goodykoontz, The Arizona Republic, 4 Nov. 2024
Historically, the Catholic Church’s stand on climate change has veered toward silence and denialism.
—Omar G. Encarnación, Time, 22 Apr. 2025
Judge Luttig asserted as much in his address to the National Conference of Bar Presidents, citing such evidence as election denialism and the 2021 attack on the U.S. Capitol.
—Blake D. Morant, Forbes.com, 3 Apr. 2025
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Diana Fersko, New York Daily News, 11 Apr. 2025
But some of those rough edges Stewart called out remain; the state is also ground zero for election denialism and conspiracy theories.
—Bill Goodykoontz, The Arizona Republic, 4 Nov. 2024
Historically, the Catholic Church’s stand on climate change has veered toward silence and denialism.
—Omar G. Encarnación, Time, 22 Apr. 2025
Judge Luttig asserted as much in his address to the National Conference of Bar Presidents, citing such evidence as election denialism and the 2021 attack on the U.S. Capitol.
—Blake D. Morant, Forbes.com, 3 Apr. 2025
See All Example Sentences for denialism
Cite this Entry
“Denialism.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/denialism. Accessed 24 Jun. 2025.
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