debunk

[dih-buhngk]

verb (used with object)

1. to expose or excoriate (a claim, assertion, sentiment, etc.) as being pretentious, false, or exaggerated.

   to debunk advertising slogans.

   Synonyms: lampoon, ridicule, disparage

debunk

/ diːˈbʌŋk /

verb

1. informal,  (tr) to expose the pretensions or falseness of, esp by ridicule

Other Word Forms

• debunker noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of debunk¹

An Americanism dating back to 1920–25; de- + bunk ²

Word History and Origins

Origin of debunk¹

C20: from _de- + _bunk ²

Example Sentences

“The media’s claims and political spins have been debunked, and the case is closed. It’s blatantly obvious that some have attempted to over-politicize this to impact the 2026 election, but these efforts have failed.”

From Salon

He previously helped run an anti-vaccine group, and has repeatedly stated widely debunked claims about vaccine harm.

From BBC

Though widely debunked in the West, this false claim lingered across the Global South.

From BBC

The idea that a politician just has to only talk about wonky policy should have been thoroughly debunked after the last election.

From Salon

Doctors and health experts have criticised Kennedy's longstanding questioning of the safety and efficacy of vaccines and his debunked views on health policies.

From BBC

Related Words

• demystify 
• disparage 
• mock 
• puncture