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
1
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 notesIn plain EnglishTo prove that something is wrong or false.
Easily confused with
Common pairings
disprove a theory
disprove a claim
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Word forms
- Third person singular
- disproves
- Past tense
- disproved, disproven
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
New fossil evidence _____ the earlier theory.
Etymology
From Old French desprover, from des- + prover ("to prove").
Synonyms
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Related words
Rhymes for disprove
See all rhymes for disprove →Frequently asked questions
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").
