Main Entry: re·but

Pronunciation: \ri-ˈbət\

Function: verb

Inflected Form(s): re·but·ted; re·but·ting

Etymology: Middle English, from Anglo-French reboter, from re- + boter to butt — more at butt

Date: 14th century

transitive verb 1 : to drive or beat back : repel
2 a : to contradict or oppose by formal legal argument, plea, or countervailing proof b : to expose the falsity of : refuteintransitive verb : to make or furnish an answer or counter proof

— re·but·ta·ble \-ˈbə-tə-bəl\ adjective