prove
prove Lexical Profile
prove Game Scores & Validity
• verb
To demonstrate the truth, existence, or validity of something by presenting evidence or logical argument.
"The defense attorney presented alibi witnesses to prove that her client was in another city at the time of the robbery."
To turn out or be discovered to have a specified quality or outcome over time.
"The new software update proved to be much more stable than the previous version."
To demonstrate one's abilities, courage, or worth through action or achievement.
"Eager to prove herself in the new role, she volunteered to lead the most challenging project."
British To become aerated and rise before baking through the action of yeast (of bread dough), or to cause dough to rise in this way.
"Cover the bowl with a damp cloth and leave the dough in a warm spot to prove for an hour."
To establish the genuineness and validity of a will before a probate court.
"The executor must prove the will in court before any assets of the estate can be distributed."
Word Nuance & Usage
Both 'proved' and 'proven' are accepted past participles of 'prove', though 'proven' is generally preferred when used as an attributive adjective before a noun (e.g., 'a proven method') and is required in the Scottish legal verdict 'not proven'.
• Rhymes for prove
• Nearby Words
Word Origin & Etymology
From Middle English 'proven', borrowed from Old French 'prover', from Latin 'probare' meaning 'to test, try, or find good', derived from 'probus' ('good, honest, upright').