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

Hegseth slipped in approval falling from net +6 on 47 percent approval and 41 percent disapproval in 2025 to net -16 in 2026 based on 38 percent approval and 54 percent disapproval, a net swing of -22. — Oliver Trapnell, MSNBC Newsweek, 11 Nov. 2026

What readers are saying The comments express overwhelming disapproval of Pete Hegseth as Secretary of Defense, criticizing his qualifications, leadership style, and decisions, particularly regarding military actions and personnel changes. — Dan Lamothe, Washington Post, 5 Nov. 2026

Her post was largely met with disapproval during a time when cost of living expenses are very much on people’s minds. — Brian Niemietz, New York Daily News, 2 Nov. 2026

Trump’s disapproval rating stood at 60%, compared to his 52% approval rating in the final 2018 poll. — Molly Parks, The Washington Examiner, 1 Nov. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1649, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for disapproval

• reapproval
• approval
• removal
• uveal

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