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.

---

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

Anderson, also known as the 14th Amendment Disqualification Clause case.

From Slate • Feb. 5, 2024

Disqualification would most likely mean demotion for Belgium.

From Seattle Times • Jun. 27, 2023

Disqualification is a way to address such threats without the heavy hand of the criminal law.

From Salon • Sep. 16, 2022

Disqualification of any athlete from a medal-winning team — a regular occurrence in other Olympic sports — means the loss of that athlete’s points.

From New York Times • Feb. 10, 2022

“The agreement was whoever earned more homework passes or got to three first. Disqualification wasn’t mentioned,” James said.

From "Book Scavenger" by Jennifer Chambliss Bertman

Related Words

• elimination
• exclusion