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

Since his death in 1996, scientists have tried to prove or disprove them. —Tom Chivers, semafor.com, 13 Feb. 2026

But Kennedy, in Senate testimony, has argued that a link between vaccines and autism has not been disproved. —Matt Brown, Fortune, 10 Feb. 2026

The late-era Genesis canon appears to disprove that theory. —Ernesto Lechner, Los Angeles Times, 10 Feb. 2026

Posterity had largely accepted her grandfather’s move as a wartime necessity, said Ole Wæver, director of the Centre for Resolution of International Conflicts at the University of Copenhagen, but ‘necessity’ can be hard to disprove and therefore easy to recycle. —Cathie Anderson, Sacbee.com, 10 Feb. 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