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

… their precious romance may not survive his family's disapproval.

—Pamela Hutchinson

Caroline's refusal to conform to convention earned her widespread disapproval …

—Adam Sisman

Fans of the hit franchise were quick to express their disapproval of the decision in the comments.

—Alex Graf

On the market floor, several attendees wore badges or pins showing their disapproval for the legislation.

—Jennifer Bringle

Synonyms of disapproval

• displeasure
• dislike
• criticism
• condemnation
• disapprobation

Examples of disapproval in a Sentence

I could sense her disapproval.

They made their disapproval of our behavior very clear.

Recent Examples on the Web

Trump previously voiced his disapproval of a similar tax put forth by Canada amid a trade war between the two countries. —Callum Sutherland, Time, 24 Apr. 2026

Also, Gallup polling released this week found that disapproval of Congress has climbed to 86%, tying the record high. —ABC News, 24 Apr. 2026

That's significantly lower than the president's average rating, as calculated by The New York Times, which is 38% approval and 58% disapproval as of April 22. —Kathryn Palmer, USA Today, 23 Apr. 2026

Examples include dissenters citing anti-war sentiments or disapproval of the government’s handling of the Epstein files. —Maximilian Brichta, The Conversation, 22 Apr. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1649, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for disapproval

• reapproval
• approval
• removal

Kids 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