disbelief

noun

dis·​be·​lief ˌdis-bə-ˈlēf 

: the act of disbelieving : mental rejection of something as untrue

Synonyms of disbelief

• skepticism
• doubt
• incredulity
• suspicion
• unbelief

Examples of disbelief in a Sentence

She stared at him in utter disbelief.

their story explaining their absence was met with frank disbelief

Recent Examples on the Web

Many on social media are expressing disbelief in the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department’s conclusion that the 16-year-old died by suicide and are demanding her case be reopened. — Caitlin McGlade, Charlotte Observer, 31 July 2026

Every novel requires some suspension of disbelief, but a book narrated by an animal—a surprisingly common subgenre—raises unique questions about representation. — Rachel Vorona Cote, The Atlantic, 30 July 2026

The TVs played scenes from the Harry Potter films and helped suspend disbelief where magical creatures were involved, and the lighting system aided in spellcasting. — Emily Tarinelli, Los Angeles Times, 29 July 2026

Euphoric players cavorting in disbelief, long-suffering fans crumpling to their knees in tears, commentators’ voices cracking at the drama of it all. — Conor O'Neill, New York Times, 27 July 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1639, in the meaning defined above

Phrases Containing disbelief

• suspend (one's) disbelief

Rhymes for disbelief

• cloverleaf
• leitmotif
• overleaf
• unbelief
• beef
• brief
• chief
• fief
• grief
• leaf
• lief
• reef

Kids Definition

disbelief

noun

dis·​be·​lief ˌdis-bə-ˈlēf 

: the act or state of disbelieving : mental rejection of something as untrue