disallow

verb

dis·​al·​low ˌdis-ə-ˈlau̇ How to pronounce disallow (audio)
disallowed; disallowing; disallows
Synonyms of disallownext

transitive verb

1
: to deny the force, truth, or validity of
2
: to refuse to allow
disallowance
ˌdis-ə-ˈlau̇-ən(t)s How to pronounce disallow (audio)
noun

Synonyms of disallow

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Examples of disallow in a Sentence

The touchdown was disallowed because of a penalty. disallowing the philosophical concept of free will
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.
Not to mention, few studios have purchased cinemas even after the Department of Justice rescinded the 1948 Paramount Consent Decrees, which previously disallowed studios from owning movie theater chains. — Sarah Whitten, CNBC, 28 Aug. 2026 Some believe Arnold will be placed on the commissioner’s exempt list at some point after he is signed, disallowing him from participating in regular-season games until his October court date, at the earliest. — Jonathan Jones, New York Times, 25 Aug. 2026 Aïssata Traoré's goal for Boston in the 92nd minute was initially disallowed, however, after a lengthy video review, it was allowed to stand. — ABC News, 23 Aug. 2026 The judges also disallowed her inquest testimony, which had been given without an attorney present. — Encyclopedia Britannica, 19 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for disallow

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of disallow was in the 15th century

Rhymes for disallow

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Browse Nearby Words

dis aliter visum
disallow
disallowance
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Disallow.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/disallow. Accessed 1 Sep. 2026.

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Kids Definition

disallow

verb
dis·​al·​low ˌdis-ə-ˈlau̇ How to pronounce disallow (audio)
: to refuse to admit or allow : reject
disallow a claim
disallowance
-ˈlau̇-ən(t)s How to pronounce disallow (audio)
noun

Legal Definition

disallow

transitive verb
dis·​al·​low ˌdi-sə-ˈlau̇ How to pronounce disallow (audio)
1
: to deny the truth, force, or validity of
disallowed the deduction
disallow a bankruptcy claim
2
: to refuse to allow
disallow payment of benefits
disallowance noun
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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