disapprove

[dis-uh-proov]

verb (used with object)

disapproved, disapproving 

1. to think (something) wrong or reprehensible; censure or condemn in opinion.

   Synonyms: criticize, decry, deplore
   Antonyms: praise

2. to withhold approval from; decline to sanction.

   The Senate disapproved the nominations.

verb (used without object)

disapproved, disapproving 

1. to have an unfavorable opinion; express disapproval (usually followed byof ).

disapprove

/ ˌdɪsəˈpruːv /

verb

1. to consider wrong, bad, etc

2. (tr) to withhold approval from

Other Word Forms

• disapprover noun
• disapprovingly adverb
• postdisapproved adjective
• disapproving adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of disapprove¹

First recorded in 1475–85; dis- ¹ + approve

Example Sentences

She’s adopted a motherly expression—stern eyes, tight lips, and a disapproving frown.

Read more on Literature

But a disapproving pinch from Alexander stopped her.

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The father disapproved of the stock market, but the payout from his death funded his son into it.

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A pair of polls in the past two months found that a majority of voters disapprove of how Kennedy has handled his role.

Read more on The Wall Street Journal

Voters in exit polls in the Garden State disapprove of Mr. Murphy, the incumbent Democratic Governor, and only 40% rate the state economy as positive.

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Related Words

• decry 
• denounce 
• deplore 
• dislike 
• oppose 
• reject 
• veto