disbelief

noun

dis·​be·​lief ˌdis-bə-ˈlēf How to pronounce disbelief (audio)
Synonyms of disbeliefnext
: the act of disbelieving : mental rejection of something as untrue

Synonyms of disbelief

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Examples of disbelief in a Sentence

She stared at him in utter disbelief. their story explaining their absence was met with frank disbelief
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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.
After the crash, Liam remembers waking up in disbelief. — David Chiu, PEOPLE, 22 June 2026 When his attempt to force a second playoff hole rolled just left, the hundreds who gathered around the green were stunned, letting out a collective groan of disbelief. — Joe Arruda, Hartford Courant, 29 June 2026 Seeing people's faces change from confusion to disbelief to smiles (and possibly some relief) provided payback for hauling up those heavy packs. — Christa Swanson, CBS News, 22 June 2026 Peering up at a row of banners boasting a familiar name and likeness, Kemba Walker is nearly in disbelief. — Roderick Boone, Charlotte Observer, 27 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for disbelief

Word History

First Known Use

1639, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of disbelief was in 1639

Phrases Containing disbelief

Rhymes for disbelief

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Browse Nearby Words

disbarment
disbelief
disbelieve
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Cite this Entry

“Disbelief.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/disbelief. Accessed 8 Jul. 2026.

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Kids Definition

disbelief

noun
dis·​be·​lief ˌdis-bə-ˈlēf How to pronounce disbelief (audio)
: the act or state of disbelieving : mental rejection of something as untrue

More from Merriam-Webster on disbelief

Nglish: Translation of disbelief for Spanish Speakers

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