disprove

verb

dis·​prove (ˌ)dis-ˈprüv How to pronounce disprove (audio)
disproved; disproven (ˌ)dis-ˈprü-vən How to pronounce disprove (audio) also disproved; disproving; disproves
Synonyms of disprovenext

transitive verb

: to prove to be false or wrong : refute
disprove a theory

Synonyms of disprove

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
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The first and third items in this indictment are indisputable; the second is a complicated and qualified matter; and the last two are libels, still part of popular legend no matter how often disproved by serious biography. Thomas Mallon, New Yorker, 18 May 2026 Eisman's work included disproving a theory that the small-bladed plant was a hybrid of another species in North America. Joe Holden, CBS News, 18 May 2026 The newest data fits a trend, alongside news that Chicago once again has the country’s busiest airfield and is a top tourist destination, disproving the narrative that the city is shrinking, said Erin Connelly, communication director for Mayor Brandon Johnson. Robert McCoppin, Chicago Tribune, 14 May 2026 In September 2024, Judge Delia Trevino dismissed the murder count, finding that prosecutors had failed to clearly establish the fatal shot came from Henderson’s gun, let alone disprove a self-defense theory. Nate Gartrell, Mercury News, 1 May 2026 See All Example Sentences for disprove

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

Time Traveler
The first known use of disprove was in the 14th century

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Disprove.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/disprove. Accessed 21 May. 2026.

Kids Definition

disprove

verb
dis·​prove (ˈ)dis-ˈprüv How to pronounce disprove (audio)
: to prove to be false

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