verb
prove
proov
verb
1
To show, by evidence or argument, that something is true.
"The new data proved the theory correct."
"She had to prove her identity before boarding."
2
To turn out to be, after time or testing.
"The plan proved to be a disaster."
3
In baking, to let dough rise before it's baked.
"Let the dough prove for an hour in a warm spot."
How to Use Prove
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishTo show something is true with evidence, to turn out a certain way over time, or (in cooking) to let dough rise.
Common pairings
prove wrong
prove a point
prove yourself
Word Forms
proves plural
Study it as flashcards or scroll it in Flow — saved to your collection.
Test yourself on “prove”
A quick quiz — meaning, synonyms & usage
→
Fill the Gap
Can you complete this real example?
The new data _____ the theory correct.
Etymology
From Old English prōfian and Old French prover, both from Latin probō, "to test, examine, show to be good" — the same root that gives us "probe" and "probable."