disapproval

noun

dis·​ap·​prov·​al ˌdis-ə-ˈprü-vəl 

plural disapprovals

: the act or fact of disapproving : the opinion that someone or something is bad, wrong, etc. or the expressing of such an opinion

Although she said nothing, her disapproval was obvious.

Their plan was met with strong/widespread disapproval. [=criticism]

Research shows that public disapproval of sitting presidents tends to rise along with the cost of a fill-up.

—Cathy Biank

… their precious romance may not survive his family's disapproval.

—Pamela Hutchinson

Caroline's refusal to conform to convention earned her widespread disapproval …

—Adam Sisman

Fans of the hit franchise were quick to express their disapproval of the decision in the comments.

—Alex Graf

On the market floor, several attendees wore badges or pins showing their disapproval for the legislation.

—Jennifer Bringle

Synonyms

• deprecation
• disapprobation
• discountenance
• disesteem
• disfavor
• dislike
• displeasure

Examples of disapproval in a Sentence

I could sense her disapproval.

They made their disapproval of our behavior very clear.

Recent Examples on the Web

Advertisement Known as joint resolutions of disapproval, the measures would have had to pass both houses of Congress and withstand any presidential veto to become binding. —Ellen Knickmeyer, Los Angeles Times, 21 Nov. 2024

As for Scott, the crowd didn’t need any priming to express its disapproval. —Anthony Man, Sun Sentinel, 18 Oct. 2024

On Monday afternoon, President Biden expressed disapproval over the IDF's imminent ground operations. —Andrea Margolis, Fox News, 30 Sep. 2024

Despite the disapproval of pharmaceutical companies, doctors and plastic surgeons are experimenting with these treatments to aid patients with gradual weight loss. —Jackie Snow, Los Angeles Times, 5 Nov. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1649, in the meaning defined above

Kids Definition

disapproval

noun

dis·​ap·​prov·​al ˌdis-ə-ˈprü-vəl 

1

: the act of disapproving : the state of being disapproved

frowned in disapproval

2

: unfavorable opinion or judgment : criticism

the plan met with disapproval