rebuttal

noun

re·​but·​tal ri-ˈbə-tᵊl 

: the act of rebutting especially in a legal suit

also : argument or proof that rebuts

Synonyms

• confutation
• disconfirmation
• disproof
• refutation

Examples of rebuttal in a Sentence

an effective rebuttal to her claim of having the gift of clairvoyance

Recent Examples on the Web

In court filings, Combs’ attorneys denied the woman was a victim, but had no specific rebuttal to prosecutors’ claim that Combs instructed a staffer to ensure the woman’s rent would continue to be paid. —Nancy Dillon, Rolling Stone, 28 Jan. 2025

The rebuttal has been posted to the preprint server EarthArXiv. —Sarah Kuta, Smithsonian Magazine, 23 Jan. 2025

But customers had a rebuttal, noting that the issue has been going on for three days. —Saleen Martin, USA TODAY, 17 Jan. 2025

Allison Holker Draws Criticism for Speaking on Stephen ‘tWitch’ Boss Details shared in a new interview inspired rebuttals from some of his family members. awards szn 9:28 a.m. —Joe Reid, Vulture, 8 Jan. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1830, in the meaning defined above

Kids Definition

rebuttal

noun

re·​but·​tal ri-ˈbət-ᵊl 

: the act of rebutting

also : argument or proof that rebuts

Legal Definition

rebuttal

noun

re·​but·​tal ri-ˈbət-ᵊl 

: the act or procedure of rebutting

also : evidence or argument that rebuts