debunk

American  

[dih-buhngk] / dɪˈbʌŋk /

verb (used with object)

1. to expose or excoriate (a claim, assertion, sentiment, etc.) as being pretentious, false, or exaggerated.

   to debunk advertising slogans.

   Synonyms:

   lampoon, ridicule, disparage

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debunk British  

/ diːˈbʌŋk /

verb

1. informal (tr) to expose the pretensions or falseness of, esp by ridicule

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Other Word Forms

• debunker noun

Etymology

Origin of debunk

An Americanism dating back to 1920–25; de- + bunk ²

Example Sentences

Even if individual claims are debunked, the persistent chorus of independent-sounding voices can make radical ideas seem mainstream and amplify negative feelings toward “others.”

From Salon

If the idea of romantic destiny is, as you call it in your book, “the weakest idea ever promoted by scientists,” what is your number-one dating myth you feel your personal research has debunked?

From Los Angeles Times

Luria said the core software business would also benefit as the narrative of “AI eating software” is debunked.

From MarketWatch

The company reported record iPhone sales and gave stronger-than-expected guidance for revenue and gross margins, debunking investor concerns that rising memory costs would reduce profitability in the near term, Graham said.

From MarketWatch

But I’m less interested in debunking this manufactured news moment — or collective act of wish-casting, or whatever it is — than in exploring why it has seized many people’s attention around the world.

From Salon

Related Words

• demystify
• disparage
• mock
• puncture