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Definitions

disavow

[dis-uh-vou] / ˌdɪs əˈvaʊ /
VERB
reject
Synonyms
STRONGEST
contradict disclaim disown forswear impugn repudiate
STRONG
abjure deny disallow gainsay negate negative refuse renege
WEAK
disacknowledge drop out go back on word wash hands of weasel out of worm out of
Antonyms
STRONGEST
accept acknowledge admit allow approve claim
STRONG
agree go along grant permit
WEAK
sanction vouch for vow

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

The studios gamely went along, ruining the lives of a number of their creative talent who refused to disavow their pasts.

From Salon • Jan. 1, 2026

The Journal reported in May that Khan invoked the investigation of Netanyahu and Gallant in communications with his accuser as he urged her to disavow her allegations against him.

From The Wall Street Journal • Nov. 19, 2025

The two seem to have accepted the theory’s ascendence and would rather apply it fairly than disavow it altogether.

From Slate • Jun. 23, 2025

“I disavow workplace toxicity and bullying of any kind,” she wrote.

From Los Angeles Times • May 9, 2024

“Go ahead and disavow whatever notion is telling you that fake-ass smile is gonna work on me.”

From "Odd One Out" by Nic Stone