disapprove

verb

dis·​ap·​prove ˌdis-ə-ˈprüv 

disapproved; disapproving; disapproves

transitive verb

1

: to pass unfavorable judgment on

2

: to refuse approval to : reject

intransitive verb

: to feel or express disapproval

disapprover noun

disapprovingly

ˌdis-ə-ˈprü-viŋ-lē 

adverb

Synonyms

• reject
• deny
• refuse
• decline

Examples of disapprove in a Sentence

She married him even though her parents disapproved.

The treaty was disapproved by the Senate.

Recent Examples on the Web

In August, 42 percent of Hispanics disapproved of Trump's immigration policies compared with 47 percent in favor. —Martha McHardy, MSNBC Newsweek, 24 Aug. 2025

Most Democratic voters disapprove of Trump, while most Republicans approve of his handling of the presidency. —Filip Timotija, The Hill, 23 Aug. 2025

Among members of this group, 28% now disapprove of Trump as president. —Adam Eichen, The Conversation, 22 Aug. 2025

Echelon Insights poll 47% approve 51% disapprove The poll was conducted from Aug. 14 to 18 among 1,057 likely voters. —Kathryn Palmer, USA Today, 21 Aug. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

circa 1562, in the meaning defined at transitive sense 1

Rhymes for disapprove

• approve
• disprove
• improve
• remove
• reprove
• groove
• move
• prove

Kids Definition

disapprove

verb

dis·​ap·​prove ˌdis-ə-ˈprüv 

1

: to dislike or be against someone or something

disapproved the child's conduct

disapproves of smoking

2

: to refuse to give approval to : reject

disapproved the architect's plans

disapprovingly

-ˈprü-viŋ-lē 

adverb