nullify
Americanverb (used with object)
-
to render or declare legally void or inoperative.
to nullify a contract.
- Synonyms:
- cancel, void, annul, invalidate
-
to deprive (something) of value or effectiveness; make futile or of no consequence.
- Synonyms:
- cancel, void, annul, invalidate
verb
-
to render legally void or of no effect
-
to render ineffective or useless; cancel out
Other Word Forms
- nullification noun
- nullifier noun
- renullify verb (used with object)
- unnullified adjective
Etymology
Origin of nullify
First recorded in 1585–95, nullify is from the Late Latin word nūllificāre to despise. See nulli-, -fy
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.
They intend to bleed, to delay, to nullify by exhaustion what they can’t defeat by argument.
That is not to say the 41-year-old lacks innovation or the ability to nullify opponents, but his similarities to predecessor Enzo Maresca mean he does not need to reinvent the wheel.
From BBC
He nearly got one with 8:44 to play when Warriors guard Stephen Curry made a shot that appeared to be a continuation after a foul, but the officials nullified the basket.
From Los Angeles Times
But the play was nullified by a holding penalty.
From Los Angeles Times
In response the legislature voted to eliminate some of the state’s most controversial fees and effectively nullify others.
From Los Angeles Times
Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023
Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.
