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

• 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

Mathematical Experiments Still, this does not necessarily disprove the HOD conjecture, or render Woodin’s Ultimate L program moot. —Gregory Barber, Quanta Magazine, 20 June 2025

This forces you to consider what data would disprove your assumptions, rather than just confirm them. —Ramalakshmi Murugan, Forbes.com, 20 June 2025

This can corroborate or disprove claims of the portion of materials present. —Sarah Jones, Sourcing Journal, 21 May 2025

The board voted to sustain the profanity finding but determined there was not enough evidence to prove or disprove the other allegations. —Kelly Davis, Mercury News, 19 May 2025

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