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

The narrative that valuation does not matter is being disproved before our very eyes – along with many other false narratives that have plagued our society. —David Trainer, Forbes, 20 Mar. 2025

Subsequent research has yielded numerous lines of evidence that, taken together, disprove the theory. —Josh Hammer, Newsweek, 19 Mar. 2025

In the 1930s, Kurt Gödel demonstrated that this is impossible: In any mathematical system, there are statements that can be neither proved nor disproved. —Joseph Howlett, WIRED, 9 Mar. 2025

Hines adamantly denied the allegation and an internal investigation did not find enough evidence to prove or disprove Choi’s claim. —Shelly Bradbury, The Denver Post, 3 Jan. 2025

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

Rhymes for disprove

• approve
• improve
• remove
• reprove
• disapprove
• groove
• move
• prove

Kids Definition

disprove

verb

dis·​prove (ˈ)dis-ˈprüv 

: to prove to be false