Entry Word: prove

Function: verb

Meaning: 1 to show the existence or truth of by evidence <the prosecutor used DNA evidence to prove the defendantʼs guilt>

Synonyms demonstrate, document, establish, substantiate, validate

Related Words back (up), buttress, corroborate; evidence, evince, record, support, witness; adduce, attest, authenticate, certify, identify; confirm, sustain, verify; clinch, nail, settle; depose, testify

Near Antonyms challenge, dispute, object; allege, assume, conjecture, guess, presume, surmise, suspect

Antonyms disprove, rebut, refute

2 to come to be <the new automobile engine design proved impractical> — see come out 1
3 to gain full recognition or acceptance of <proved herself a great actress on the Broadway stage> — see establish 1