disprove

verb

dis·​prove (ˌ)dis-ˈprüv 

disproved; disproven (ˌ)dis-ˈprü-vən  also disproved; disproving; disproves

transitive verb

: to prove to be false or wrong : refute

disprove a theory

Synonyms of disprove

• refute

Examples of disprove in a Sentence

Magellan's circumnavigation of the globe disproved any lingering notions that the earth is flat.

Recent Examples on the Web

Trump’s bogus claim that the 2020 election was stolen from him has been disproved time and again — in court, recounts, research and investigative reporting. —Michael Smolens, San Diego Union-Tribune, 29 Mar. 2026

However, Nick's attorneys countered that these findings didn't necessarily disprove his version of the events. —ABC News, 27 Mar. 2026

Meanwhile, the New Atheists were making hay of the fact that such faithful misapprehensions about nature were easily disproved by scientific discovery. —Elizabeth Bruenig, The Atlantic, 26 Mar. 2026

Prosecutors warned that the statute encouraged exaggerated or bad-faith claims that would be difficult to disprove years after the fact. —Pamela Colloff, ProPublica, 24 Mar. 2026

Word History

Etymology

Middle English, from Anglo-French desprover, from des- dis- + prover to prove

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for disprove

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

Kids Definition

disprove

verb

dis·​prove (ˈ)dis-ˈprüv 

: to prove to be false