rebuttal

noun

re·​but·​tal ri-ˈbə-tᵊl How to pronounce rebuttal (audio)
: the act of rebutting especially in a legal suit
also : argument or proof that rebuts

Examples of rebuttal in a Sentence

an effective rebuttal to her claim of having the gift of clairvoyance
Recent Examples on the Web
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.
This is only part of a rumor rebuttal, dismissing the Instagram theory. Paul Tassi, Forbes.com, 1 July 2025 The trial reached an explosive climax as Comey rested her rebuttal. Ethan Shanfeld, Variety, 27 June 2025 The court indicated that prosecutors would get four hours on Thursday, and then Combs' attorneys will take their turn on Friday, followed by an hour of prosecution rebuttal. Kiki Intarasuwan, CBS News, 26 June 2025 His response offered an admission of infidelity and a string of rebuttals to each claim of misdoing. Craig Jenkins, Vulture, 13 May 2025 See All Example Sentences for rebuttal

Word History

First Known Use

1830, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of rebuttal was in 1830

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Rebuttal.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/rebuttal. Accessed 15 Jul. 2025.

Kids Definition

rebuttal

noun
re·​but·​tal ri-ˈbət-ᵊl How to pronounce rebuttal (audio)
: the act of rebutting
also : argument or proof that rebuts

Legal Definition

rebuttal

noun
re·​but·​tal ri-ˈbət-ᵊl How to pronounce rebuttal (audio)
: the act or procedure of rebutting
also : evidence or argument that rebuts

More from Merriam-Webster on rebuttal

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!