disapproval
noun
dis·ap·prov·al
ˌdis-ə-ˈprü-vəl 
plural disapprovals
: the act or fact of disapproving : the opinion that someone or something is bad, wrong, etc. or the expressing of such an opinion
Although she said nothing, her disapproval was obvious.
Their plan was met with strong/widespread disapproval. [=criticism]
Research shows that public disapproval of sitting presidents tends to rise along with the cost of a fill-up.—
Cathy Biank
Cathy Biank… their precious romance may not survive his family's disapproval.—Pamela Hutchinson
Pamela HutchinsonCaroline's refusal to conform to convention earned her widespread disapproval …—Adam Sisman
Adam SismanFans of the hit franchise were quick to express their disapproval of the decision in the comments.—Alex Graf
Alex GrafOn the market floor, several attendees wore badges or pins showing their disapproval for the legislation.—Jennifer Bringle
Jennifer BringleExamples of disapproval in a Sentence
I could sense her disapproval.
They made their disapproval of our behavior very clear.
Recent Examples on the Web
The president is such a potent force in Republican primaries that his endorsement, or his disapproval, can make the difference between winning and losing.
—Anthony Man, Sun Sentinel, 14 June 2026
In a public display of disapproval, state workers again fundraised money to erect a billboard just outside downtown Sacramento, accusing the governor of causing more freeway traffic with his decision.
—William Melhado, Sacbee.com, 9 June 2026
Three months later, a June 1 YouGov poll gave him 35% approval and 61% disapproval.
—John Seiler, Oc Register, 9 June 2026
Skyler was among 45 former ADA presidents and board chairs who wrote to the current board to express their shock and disapproval of ADA’s actions to stifle those who handed out the editorial.
—Elizabeth Cooney, STAT, 9 June 2026
See All Example Sentences for disapproval
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Anthony Man, Sun Sentinel, 14 June 2026
In a public display of disapproval, state workers again fundraised money to erect a billboard just outside downtown Sacramento, accusing the governor of causing more freeway traffic with his decision.
—William Melhado, Sacbee.com, 9 June 2026
Three months later, a June 1 YouGov poll gave him 35% approval and 61% disapproval.
—John Seiler, Oc Register, 9 June 2026
Skyler was among 45 former ADA presidents and board chairs who wrote to the current board to express their shock and disapproval of ADA’s actions to stifle those who handed out the editorial.
—Elizabeth Cooney, STAT, 9 June 2026
See All Example Sentences for disapproval
Cite this Entry
“Disapproval.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/disapproval. Accessed 16 Jun. 2026.
Copy CitationKids Definition
disapproval
noun
dis·ap·prov·al
ˌdis-ə-ˈprü-vəl
1
: the act of disapproving : the state of being disapproved
frowned in disapproval
2
: unfavorable opinion or judgment : criticism
the plan met with disapproval
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