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.
The third will be a closely-watched contest in Montreal that his party won by just one vote in the last election - a result that was nullified by the Supreme Court.
From BBC
If competing proposals appear on a ballot and are successful, the one that receives the most votes nullifies the other.
From Los Angeles Times
In this example, the Chelsea players have roles as 'blockers' - a tactic that is increasingly common from corners, with the aim of nullifying the strongest aerial threats by impeding their movement.
From BBC
In accordance with Greek law, the appeal nullified his conviction and meant there would be a full retrial.
From BBC
"The study also tells us how albumin works on nullifying critical virulence factors including toxins and other fungal proteins involved in causing tissue damage and in aggressively invading human organs," explained Dr. Ibrahim.
From Science Daily
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.
