disqualification

American  

[dis-kwol-uh-fi-key-shuhn] / dɪsˌkwɒl ə fɪˈkeɪ ʃən /

noun

1. an act or instance of disqualifying.

2. the state of being disqualified.

3. something that disqualifies.

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Etymology

Origin of disqualification

First recorded in 1705–15; disquali(fy) + -fication

Explanation

A situation or fact that means you're not allowed or able to participate in something is a disqualification. Being born in a non-US country is a disqualification for becoming President of the United States. Not speaking French might be a disqualification for studying in France, and being over 18 is a disqualification for participating in Little League baseball. Another kind of disqualification is the action of preventing someone from doing something, often for a specific time period: "His disqualification from participating in bowling tournaments lasts until next year." Qualify, from the Latin qualis, "of what sort?" came to mean "be fit for a job." The prefix dis- means "not."

Example Sentences

He told the court: "Without relief, they face the risk of criminal prosecution, a fine, a three-year disqualification from elective office, and, if Mr Goodwin were elected, potential invalidation of the result."

From BBC • Feb. 25, 2026

The Olympian didn’t budge, and the standoff ended with his disqualification.

From The Wall Street Journal • Feb. 15, 2026

Pushing off before the lights go out results in heavy penalties or even disqualification and that led to many of the sliders erring on the side of caution with some hesitant starts.

From BBC • Feb. 15, 2026

The Ukrainian skeleton racer Vladyslav Heraskevych said he hoped "truth will prevail" after he appealed his disqualification from the Milan-Cortina Winter Olympics at sport's top court on Friday.

From Barron's • Feb. 13, 2026

“I mean that if disqualification was part of the rules, I’d miss having you around.”

From "Scythe" by Neal Shusterman

Related Words

• elimination
• exclusion