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Definition of disallow

disallow

/ˌdɪsəˈlaʊ/
dis · al · low
Adjective:disallowable
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Past Simple:disallowed
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Past Participle:disallowed
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Present Participle:disallowing
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disallow Lexical Profile

disallow Game Scores & Validity

• verb

1

To refuse to declare valid or accept as legitimate (especially of a legal claim, deduction, or sports score).

Example

"The referee decided to disallow the goal after reviewing the video replay for an offside violation."

2

To officially forbid, prohibit, or refuse to permit an action or practice.

Example

"The updated tournament guidelines strictly disallow the use of unapproved electronic equipment during matches."

Synonyms
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Antonyms
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• Rhymes for disallow

• Nearby Words

disagreeableness
disagreeably
disagreement
disallow
disallowable
disallowance
disannex

Word Origin & Etymology

Borrowed in the late 14th century from Anglo-French desallouer and Old French desalouer, originally meaning 'to disapprove, reject, or refuse to praise,' before later becoming associated with the sense of refusing to permit.

Cite this Entry

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