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

But Ellison and his management team have been moving fast to revitalize Paramount and disprove skeptics across Hollywood. —Brian Stelter, CNN Money, 5 Dec. 2025

Walshe has been charged with first degree murder, which requires premeditation, something that the defense is likely going to try to chip away at and disprove throughout the trial. —Colleen Cronin, Boston Herald, 4 Dec. 2025

Totani himself said additional study is needed to prove or disprove his claim. —Denise Chow, NBC news, 25 Nov. 2025

In the following days, authorities also located video surveillance that disproved James' alibi of walking their dog, while also finding footage of someone with his build running near the scene of the crime. —Caroline Blair, PEOPLE, 15 Nov. 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