nullify

[ nuhl-uh-fahy ]

verb (used with object)

, nul·li·fied, nul·li·fy·ing.

1. to render or declare legally void or inoperative:

   to nullify a contract.

   Synonyms: cancel, void, annul, invalidate

2. to deprive (something) of value or effectiveness; make futile or of no consequence.

   Synonyms: cancel, void, annul, invalidate

nullify

/ ˈnʌlɪˌfaɪ /

verb

1. to render legally void or of no effect
2. to render ineffective or useless; cancel out

Derived Forms

• ˌnullifiˈcation, noun
• ˈnulliˌfier, noun

Other Words From

• nulli·fier noun
• re·nulli·fy verb (used with object) renullified renullifying
• un·nulli·fied adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of nullify¹

First recorded in 1585–95, nullify is from the Late Latin word nūllificāre to despise. See nulli-, -fy

Word History and Origins

Origin of nullify¹

C16: from Late Latin nullificāre to despise, from Latin nullus of no account + facere to make

Example Sentences

He also made a 52-yard attempt in the third quarter, but the kick was nullified because of an illegal procedure penalty.

From Los Angeles Times

Everyone who voted to expand access to abortion via state ballot initiatives and for Trump "nullified their vote on the abortion amendments."

From Salon

“It’s wild to me to see these D.C. staffer bros in bow ties making decisions,” she said, calling for national codification of abortion rights to nullify the Supreme Court’s Dobbs decision.

From Los Angeles Times

One source of optimism for the pro-democracy coalition is that Vance’s old and tired ideas nullify any “youthfulness” his age was intended to represent.

From Salon

The Gophers just upset USC and might have toppled Michigan on the road had referees not nullified a perfectly executed onside kick because of an alleged offsides penalty.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• abolish
• abrogate
• annul
• invalidate
• negate
• offset
• quash
• repeal
• rescind
• restrict
• torpedo
• undo
• veto
• void
• wipe out