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Synonyms

invalidate

American  
[in-val-i-deyt] / ɪnˈvæl ɪˌdeɪt /

verb (used with object)

invalidated, invalidating
  1. to render invalid; discredit.

    Synonyms:
    rebut, refute, disprove, impair, weaken
  2. to deprive of legal force or efficacy; nullify.


invalidate British  
/ ɪnˈvælɪˌdeɪt /

verb

  1. to render weak or ineffective, as an argument

  2. to take away the legal force or effectiveness of; annul, as a contract

"Collins English Dictionary — Complete & Unabridged" 2012 Digital Edition © William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012

Other Word Forms

  • invalidation noun
  • invalidator noun

Etymology

Origin of invalidate

First recorded in 1640–50; invalid 2 + -ate 1

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

One doctor never examined her, while another barely spoke to her; either of these issues could invalidate competency declarations and expose medical misconduct, fraud and/or conspiracy.

From MarketWatch

They say the new guidance violates multiple federal laws, including laws that govern federal spending and rule changes, and are asking the federal court to immediately invalidate the guidance as unlawful.

From Los Angeles Times

Despite the Supreme Court invalidating tariffs, the process for retailers to secure refunds, or for shoppers to receive them, remains unclear.

From Barron's

The courts may invalidate specious claims that certain imports threaten national security.

From The Wall Street Journal

The ruling invalidates actions Lake took while running the agency between July and November 2025, including sweeping staff reductions and operational changes that sharply curtailed Voice of America’s operations.

From Salon