rebuttal

noun

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

Synonyms of rebuttal

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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.
However, a 2026 paper on the subject has proved controversial; a formal rebuttal claims that the analysis is flawed. — Carrie Arnold contributing, Quanta Magazine, 2 Sep. 2026 In the state’s final rebuttal before jurors began deliberating Monday afternoon, Clark County Chief Deputy District Attorney Marc DiGiacomo dismissed Sanft’s argument that inconsistencies in Davis’ accounts undermined the prosecution’s case. — Nancy Dillon, Rolling Stone, 1 Sep. 2026 In late July, after the congressional report was issued, the South Korean government submitted a rebuttal to the committee which the embassy also provided to CNBC. — Justin Papp, CNBC, 31 Aug. 2026 Heather has a great rebuttal, which is that Emily is accusing her of things that Emily does herself. — Brian Moylan, Vulture, 28 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for rebuttal

Word History

First Known Use

1792, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of rebuttal was in 1792

Rhymes for rebuttal

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Browse Nearby Words

rebuttable
rebuttal
rebutter
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Cite this Entry

“Rebuttal.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/rebuttal. Accessed 5 Sep. 2026.

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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
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