noun
disbelief
dis-bih-LEEF/ˌdɪsbɪˈliːf/
Inability or refusal to accept something as true.
The visitor stares at the enormous pumpkin in disbelief, eyebrows raised.
Etymology
Belief developed from confidence or faith into mental acceptance of something as true. Adding dis- negates that acceptance; disbelief can be active rejection, not merely an absence of opinion.
In context
Emily turned to her mother, eyes wide with a mix of betrayal and disbelief. What do you mean, Mom? Is it true?
More examples
- His claim that he never sleeps is met with disbelief.
- My initial disbelief fades when I see the evidence.
- The audience stares in disbelief as the magician disappears.
Forms
disbelief
disbelieve verb — To refuse to accept as true.
disbelieving adjective — Unable or unwilling to accept something as true.
Similar words
- incredulity
- Emphasizes astonishment at something that seems impossible to believe.
- skepticism
- Emphasizes questioning claims and wanting evidence before accepting them.
- doubt
- Allows uncertainty rather than an inability or refusal to believe.