disprove

verb

dis·​prove (ˌ)dis-ˈprüv 

disproved; disproven (ˌ)dis-ˈprü-vən  also disproved; disproving; disproves

transitive verb

: to prove to be false or wrong : refute

disprove a theory

Synonyms

• belie
• confound
• confute
• debunk
• disconfirm
• discredit
• falsify
• rebut
• refute
• shoot down

Examples of disprove in a Sentence

Magellan's circumnavigation of the globe disproved any lingering notions that the earth is flat.

Recent Examples on the Web

In June, Lawrence Hollom of the University of Cambridge disproved a version of the bunkbed problem in a different context. —Joseph Howlett, Quanta Magazine, 1 Nov. 2024

Kennedy has long claimed that childhood vaccines contribute to autism, despite numerous studies disproving that notion. —Byjocelyn Kaiser, science.org, 30 Oct. 2024

This is a begging-the-question fallacy disproved all the time by great popular geniuses like Shakespeare, Mozart, Toni Morrison, Lorca himself. —Lauren Groff, New York Times, 17 Oct. 2024

Loading 1923 Consolation Nobel While failing to disprove Einstein’s theory, Millikan has succeeded in making quantum measurements of unprecedented precision. —Charlie Wood, Quanta Magazine, 30 Oct. 2024

Word History

Etymology

Middle English, from Anglo-French desprover, from des- dis- + prover to prove

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined above

Kids Definition

disprove

verb

dis·​prove (ˈ)dis-ˈprüv 

: to prove to be false