disapprove

verb

dis·​ap·​prove ˌdis-ə-ˈprüv How to pronounce disapprove (audio)
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 adverb

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 Results broke heavily along party lines, with 83% of Democrats disapproving of the high court versus only 19% of Republicans. Alison Durkee, Forbes, 7 Oct. 2024 Only 11% strongly approve of the job Adams is doing as mayor, and 47% strongly disapprove, pollsters said. Christian Wade | The Center Square Contributor, Washington Examiner - Political News and Conservative Analysis About Congress, the President, and the Federal Government, 4 Oct. 2024 And of the 30% who disapproved of resuming pony rides, nearly two-thirds supported less involved animal experiences — such as animal petting or simply viewing opportunities — in the space. Terry Castleman, Los Angeles Times, 1 Oct. 2024 Despite her doubts, Beau, an heir to a wealthy family, proves his feelings for her are real, even as his family disapproves. Rebecca Angel Baer, Southern Living, 19 Sep. 2024 See all Example Sentences for disapprove 

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'disapprove.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

First Known Use

circa 1562, in the meaning defined at transitive sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of disapprove was circa 1562

Dictionary Entries Near disapprove

Cite this Entry

“Disapprove.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/disapprove. Accessed 22 Oct. 2024.

Kids Definition

disapprove

verb
dis·​ap·​prove ˌdis-ə-ˈprüv How to pronounce disapprove (audio)
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 adverb

More from Merriam-Webster on disapprove

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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