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 of disapprove

• 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

Quinnipiac found majorities of voters disapproved of the way that Trump is handling immigration issues, the economy, foreign policy and the ongoing war with Iran. — Nicholas Kerr, ABC News, 4 July 2026

Just last week, a Florida Politics poll showed Fort Lauderdale voters disapproved of her spending. — Amanda Rosa, Miami Herald, 3 July 2026

Even so, Zaslav’s package failed to win shareholder support; 84% of those who voted in June disapproved, following a similar rejection a year before. — Los Angeles Times, 29 June 2026

Margo, a staunch Conservative neighbor of the couple, was disapproving of the pair’s decisions, and Keith’s performance would win her the 1977 BAFTA TV Award for best light entertainment. — Lily Ford, HollywoodReporter, 29 June 2026

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