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 of disprove

• refute

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 detectives recognized that his heartbeat would disprove his story of running around trying to rescue all of his worldly belongings. —ArsTechnica, 8 Apr. 2026

Only after World War II—and over the objections of much of the brass—was the military integrated, and then only after an exhaustive internal investigation disproved racist assumptions that Black troops could only fill menial roles or serve in segregated units. —Adam Serwer, The Atlantic, 8 Apr. 2026

Even Birdman, who continues to disprove Malcolm Gladwell’s 10,000 hours theory of expertise with his rapping, gets a rise out of him. —Sadie Sartini Garner, Pitchfork, 7 Apr. 2026

His triumphs disproved Nazi dictator Adolf Hitler’s belief in white supremacy. —Lorenzino Estrada, AZCentral.com, 31 Mar. 2026

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