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Definition of denial

denial

/dɪˈnaɪ.əl/
de · ni · al
Adverb:deniably
•
Plural:denials
•
Adjective:deniable
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denial Lexical Profile

denial Game Scores & Validity

• noun

1

The action of declaring that something is not true, or an assertion that an allegation is false.

Example

"The spokesperson issued a firm denial of the rumors circulating in the press."

2

The refusal of something requested, desired, or claimed, such as a right, privilege, or opportunity.

Example

"The sudden denial of their visa application forced the researchers to postpone the conference trip."

3

A psychological defense mechanism in which a person refuses to acknowledge or accept an unpleasant reality or truth.

Example

"Even after seeing the declining financial reports, the company founder remained in complete denial about the need to restructure."

Synonyms
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Antonyms
View all antonyms for denial

• Rhymes for denial

• Nearby Words

deniability
deniable
deniably
denial
denialism
denialist
denier

Word Origin & Etymology

Coined in the early 16th century from the verb 'deny' and the noun-forming suffix '-al'. The verb traces back through Old French 'denier' to Latin 'denegare', meaning 'to reject or refuse completely'.

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Denial. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/denial
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