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 Granbury City Council chambers was nearly overflowing with people Tuesday evening as residents came out to speak on the agenda items and voice their disapproval and disappointment.
—Emily Holshouser, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 8 Apr. 2026
The bill passed the House floor 62-28 in March with bipartisan support and disapproval.
—Alexia Aston, Oklahoman, 7 Apr. 2026
The Wireless festival has been enmeshed in controversy ever since West was announced as its headliner, with Prime Minister Keir Starmer voicing disapproval within days.
—Jem Aswad, Variety, 7 Apr. 2026
The race to embrace the mantle of change in the June 2 primary election comes at a moment of political peril for Bass, a veteran Democrat who has racked up high disapproval numbers in several voter surveys.
—Los Angeles Times, 6 Apr. 2026
See All Example Sentences for disapproval
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Emily Holshouser, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 8 Apr. 2026
The bill passed the House floor 62-28 in March with bipartisan support and disapproval.
—Alexia Aston, Oklahoman, 7 Apr. 2026
The Wireless festival has been enmeshed in controversy ever since West was announced as its headliner, with Prime Minister Keir Starmer voicing disapproval within days.
—Jem Aswad, Variety, 7 Apr. 2026
The race to embrace the mantle of change in the June 2 primary election comes at a moment of political peril for Bass, a veteran Democrat who has racked up high disapproval numbers in several voter surveys.
—Los Angeles Times, 6 Apr. 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 9 Apr. 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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