verb

disprove

dihs-PROOV

Disprove (verb) means to show that a claim, theory, or belief is false. Example: “New fossil evidence disproved the earlier theory.”

verb

To show that a claim, theory, or belief is false.

"New fossil evidence disproved the earlier theory."

"The alibi disproved the accusation completely."

How to use disprove

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishTo prove that something is wrong or false.

Common pairings

disprove a theory disprove a claim

disproved past tense, disproven past tense, disproves singular

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Can you complete this real example?

New fossil evidence _____ the earlier theory.

From Old French desprover, from des- + prover ("to prove").

Origin: Old French

confute

prove

evidence prove raise proof establish confirm convince demonstrate

love wove move cove hove Jove rove Dove above drove prove grove

What does “disprove” mean?

The word “disprove” means to show that a claim, theory, or belief is false. In plain terms, to prove that something is wrong or false.

How do you pronounce “disprove”?

“Disprove” is pronounced dihs-PROOV (/dɪsˈpɹuv/ in IPA).

How do you use “disprove” in a sentence?

Here is “disprove” used in a sentence: “New fossil evidence disproved the earlier theory.”

What is the opposite of “disprove”?

The opposite of “disprove” — its antonyms — is prove.

What part of speech is “disprove”?

“Disprove” is a verb.

Where does the word “disprove” come from?

The word “disprove” comes from Old French. From Old French desprover, from des- + prover ("to prove").

evidence prove raise proof establish confirm convince demonstrate