rebuttal

noun

re·​but·​tal ri-ˈbə-tᵊl 

: the act of rebutting especially in a legal suit

also : argument or proof that rebuts

Synonyms

• refutation

Examples of rebuttal in a Sentence

an effective rebuttal to her claim of having the gift of clairvoyance

Recent Examples on the Web

While his viral confrontations often featured sharp rebuttals to liberal students, Kirk maintained that his goal was to foster serious consideration of conservative ideas among the next generation. —Amanda Castro joshua Rhett Miller, MSNBC Newsweek, 12 Sep. 2025

Henry caught wind of Delpit's remarks and offered a rebuttal. —Chantz Martin, FOXNews.com, 12 Sep. 2025

Jones, who was represented by Drew Tulumello and Zachary Schreiber of Weil, Gotshall & Manges and Andrew Latack of Klutch Sports Group, offered several rebuttals. —Michael McCann, Sportico.com, 12 Sep. 2025

At least three scientists listed among the authors of the DOE rebuttal document have worked with the Nature Conservancy in the past. —Robert Schmad, The Washington Examiner, 7 Sep. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1830, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for rebuttal

• cuttle
• scuttle
• shtetl
• shuttle
• subtle
• suttle

Kids Definition

rebuttal

noun

re·​but·​tal ri-ˈbət-ᵊl 

: the act of rebutting

also : argument or proof that rebuts

Legal Definition

rebuttal

noun

re·​but·​tal ri-ˈbət-ᵊl 

: the act or procedure of rebutting

also : evidence or argument that rebuts