disavow

[ dis-uh-vou ]

verb (used with object)

1. to disclaim knowledge of, connection with, or responsibility for; disown; repudiate:

   He disavowed the remark that had been attributed to him.

   Synonyms: disclaim, reject, deny

disavow

/ ˌdɪsəˈvaʊ /

verb

1. tr to deny knowledge of, connection with, or responsibility for

Derived Forms

• ˌdisaˈvowedly, adverb
• ˌdisaˈvower, noun
• ˌdisaˈvowal, noun

Other Words From

• disa·vowed·ly adverb
• disa·vower noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of disavow¹

1350–1400; Middle English disavouen, desavouen < Anglo-French, Old French desavouer. See dis- ¹, avow

Example Sentences

But by the end of the interview, he had still not disavowed his position that abortion is akin to slavery or that he and Trump will end federal funding for Planned Parenthood.

From Salon

Many of his supporters have disavowed the election system — some poll workers are wearing bulletproof vests — and have threatened force to return him to power.

From Los Angeles Times

“I call upon you, Mr. Trump, to disavow these comments as reflecting in any way your personal or political,” he wrote, adding that an apology from Trump’s campaign was not sufficient in excusing the remarks.

From Salon

He pooh-poohs warnings from the Wall Street Journal editorial board and cites the 19th century tariffs of President McKinley, who in fact disavowed such protectionism late in his term.

From Los Angeles Times

Those involved in the project include dozens of people who, like Gunasekara, served in his administration, although the candidate has disavowed any connection to the conservative playbook.

From Salon

Related Words

• contradict
• disclaim
• disown
• forswear
• impugn
• repudiate