disbelief

noun

dis·​be·​lief ˌdis-bə-ˈlēf 

: the act of disbelieving : mental rejection of something as untrue

Synonyms of disbelief

• skepticism
• doubt
• incredulity
• suspicion
• unbelief

Examples of disbelief in a Sentence

She stared at him in utter disbelief.

their story explaining their absence was met with frank disbelief

Recent Examples on the Web

There’s still a kernel of disbelief that this is his job. —Sam Farmer, Los Angeles Times, 6 Feb. 2026

Watch the video above to see Tashia’s joy and disbelief when Chris steps inside! —Ronnie Li, USA Today, 5 Feb. 2026

Schneider watches the games from the owner’s suite, and when things go wrong, Allen turns to him with wide-eyed disbelief that speaks the universal language of a passionate fan. —Jerry Brewer, New York Times, 4 Feb. 2026

The deep distress our family feels because of Nay's loss is in such a violent and unnecessary way is complicated by feelings of disbelief, distress and desperation for change. —Wcco Staff, CBS News, 4 Feb. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1639, in the meaning defined above

Phrases Containing disbelief

• suspend (one's) disbelief

Rhymes for disbelief

• cloverleaf
• leitmotif
• overleaf
• unbelief
• beef
• brief
• chief
• fief
• grief
• leaf
• lief
• reef

Kids Definition

disbelief

noun

dis·​be·​lief ˌdis-bə-ˈlēf 

: the act or state of disbelieving : mental rejection of something as untrue