denialism
noun
de·ni·al·ism
di-ˈnī(-ə)l-ˌi-zəm 
dē-
: the practice of denying the existence, truth, or validity of something despite proof or strong evidence that it is real, true, or valid
This depressing tale is the latest incarnation of denialism, the systematic rejection of a body of science in favour of make-believe.—
Debora MacKenzie
Debora MacKenzieHe [Henry Puna] said climate change denialism jeopardised the future of Pacific countries: "Some are not willing to accept the stark realities."—Ben Doherty
Ben DohertyThe problem of vaccine denialism is closely tied to the problem of information and authority in the digital age. People prone to skepticism can cover themselves with layers of pseudo-science and conspiracy theories that thicken and harden like papier mache.—Michael Gerson
Michael GersonGetting accurate information across in the face of this science denialism is something of a minefield, as there is evidence that attempts to correct misinformation may backfire, further entrenching the beliefs of science deniers instead.—Cathleen O'Grady
Cathleen O'GradyExamples of denialism in a Sentence
Recent Examples on the Web
To look away is an act of both will and denialism, a form of self-preservation.
—David Remnick, New Yorker, 28 July 2025
Prosecutors have charged a Pagosa Springs man who has a history of election denialism in connection with the June firebombing of the Archuleta County Clerk and Recorder’s Office.
—Seth Klamann, Denver Post, 14 July 2025
In one of the most heated exchanges of the hearing, Rep. Greg Stanton (D-AZ) lambasted Lake over her credibility, arguing that her history of election denialism disqualifies her from leading an agency tasked with promoting factual information abroad.
—Samantha-Jo Roth, The Washington Examiner, 25 June 2025
Today’s climate denialism is more insidious than the overt skepticism of the 1990s.
—Ken Silverstein, Forbes.com, 2 July 2025
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David Remnick, New Yorker, 28 July 2025
Prosecutors have charged a Pagosa Springs man who has a history of election denialism in connection with the June firebombing of the Archuleta County Clerk and Recorder’s Office.
—Seth Klamann, Denver Post, 14 July 2025
In one of the most heated exchanges of the hearing, Rep. Greg Stanton (D-AZ) lambasted Lake over her credibility, arguing that her history of election denialism disqualifies her from leading an agency tasked with promoting factual information abroad.
—Samantha-Jo Roth, The Washington Examiner, 25 June 2025
Today’s climate denialism is more insidious than the overt skepticism of the 1990s.
—Ken Silverstein, Forbes.com, 2 July 2025
See All Example Sentences for denialism
Cite this Entry
“Denialism.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/denialism. Accessed 21 Aug. 2025.
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