Definitions

refute

[ri-fyoot] / rɪˈfyut /

VERB

prove false; discredit

Synonyms

STRONGEST

contradict counter disprove expose oppose quash rebut repudiate squelch

STRONG

abnegate break burn cancel confute contend contravene convict crush debate demolish disclaim dispute evert explode gainsay invalidate negate overthrow parry silence top

WEAK

argue against blow sky-high burn down cancel out disconfirm dispose of give the lie to give thumbs down to reply to shoot down shoot full of holes show up take a stand against tear down

Antonyms

STRONGEST

agree aid allow approve assist concede help support

STRONG

concur endorse fix give in go along lose permit prove release surrender uphold yield

WEAK

ratify sanction

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.

Therefore, no affected person was in the courtroom to refute the therapist’s claim that, since she only deploys speech, her counseling is harmless and deserves First Amendment protection.

From Slate • Apr. 3, 2026

His lawyers refute this and argue he was denied due process.

From Barron's • Mar. 19, 2026

The new ad campaign appears to be an extension of his work to refute the anti-California narrative.

From Los Angeles Times • Mar. 6, 2026

Like Marge, they refute brutality and rally against it.

From Salon • Feb. 7, 2026

To refute her critics, Gallup had assembled a team at Riverbank, with Fabyan’s backing.

From "The Woman All Spies Fear" by Amy Butler Greenfield

Vocabulary lists containing refute

The SAT: Language of the Test, List 3

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The ACT: The Language of the Test, List 2

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Grade 9, List 3

Want to remember this word for good? Start your learning journey today with our library of interactive, themed word lists built by the experts at Vocabulary.com – we'll help you make the most of your study time!