rebuttal

noun

re·​but·​tal ri-ˈbə-tᵊl How to pronounce rebuttal (audio)
: the act of rebutting especially in a legal suit
also : argument or proof that rebuts

Examples of rebuttal in a Sentence

an effective rebuttal to her claim of having the gift of clairvoyance
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
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 See all Example Sentences for rebuttal 

Word History

First Known Use

1830, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of rebuttal was in 1830

Dictionary Entries Near rebuttal

Cite this Entry

“Rebuttal.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/rebuttal. Accessed 3 Feb. 2025.

Kids Definition

rebuttal

noun
re·​but·​tal ri-ˈbət-ᵊl How to pronounce rebuttal (audio)
: the act of rebutting
also : argument or proof that rebuts

Legal Definition

rebuttal

noun
re·​but·​tal ri-ˈbət-ᵊl How to pronounce rebuttal (audio)
: the act or procedure of rebutting
also : evidence or argument that rebuts

More from Merriam-Webster on rebuttal

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