disallow

verb

dis·​al·​low ˌdis-ə-ˈlau̇ How to pronounce disallow (audio)
disallowed; disallowing; disallows

transitive verb

1
: to deny the force, truth, or validity of
2
: to refuse to allow
disallowance noun

Examples of disallow in a Sentence

The touchdown was disallowed because of a penalty. disallowing the philosophical concept of free will
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.
India disallows it to maintain legal and administrative clarity, offering Overseas Citizenship of India (OCI) status instead, which grants limited privileges without full citizenship. Joe Edwards, MSNBC Newsweek, 16 July 2025 Closer review: England forward Alessia Russo’s opening goal against France was disallowed for a marginal offside ruling on Beth Mead. Emily Olsen, New York Times, 8 July 2025 Rubin put the ball past Freese in the 29th minute, but the goal was disallowed for offside. Los Angeles Times, 3 July 2025 And the offensive possessions by Tom Thibodeau’s squad led to makes, disallowing the Pacers to get out on the break frequently. Fiifi Frimpong, New York Daily News, 30 May 2025 See All Example Sentences for disallow

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of disallow was in the 15th century

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Disallow.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/disallow. Accessed 25 Jul. 2025.

Kids Definition

disallow

verb
dis·​al·​low ˌdis-ə-ˈlau̇ How to pronounce disallow (audio)
: to refuse to admit or allow : reject
disallow a claim
disallowance noun

Legal Definition

disallow

transitive verb
dis·​al·​low ˌdi-sə-ˈlau̇ How to pronounce disallow (audio)
1
: to deny the truth, force, or validity of
disallowed the deduction
disallow a bankruptcy claim
2
: to refuse to allow
disallow payment of benefits
disallowance noun

More from Merriam-Webster on disallow

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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