plural disapprovals
Synonyms of disapprovalnext
: the act or fact of disapproving : the opinion that someone or something is bad, wrong, etc. or the expressing of such an opinion
Although she said nothing, her disapproval was obvious.
Their plan was met with strong/widespread disapproval. [=criticism]
Research shows that public disapproval of sitting presidents tends to rise along with the cost of a fill-up.—Cathy Biank
… their precious romance may not survive his family's disapproval.—Pamela Hutchinson
Caroline's refusal to conform to convention earned her widespread disapproval …—Adam Sisman
Fans of the hit franchise were quick to express their disapproval of the decision in the comments.—Alex Graf
On the market floor, several attendees wore badges or pins showing their disapproval for the legislation.—Jennifer Bringle

Examples of disapproval in a Sentence

I could sense her disapproval. They made their disapproval of our behavior very clear.
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
But Republicans privately worry that growing disapproval of his administration is a liability. — Michelle S. Price, Fortune, 17 Oct. 2026 The latest Fox News survey released Wednesday showed disapproval of the job Trump is doing has reached 77% on inflation, 70% on the economy, 69% on tariffs and 64% on foreign policy. — Lisa Gutierrez, Kansas City Star, 16 Oct. 2026 But at a meet in Arlington, Washington, last Saturday, numerous parents made their disapproval clear. — Matt Calkins Outkick, FOXNews.com, 15 Oct. 2026 Students quickly learn which opinions produce approval and which invite disapproval. — Rabbi Bruce D. Forman, Sun Sentinel, 13 Oct. 2026 See All Example Sentences for disapproval

Word History

First Known Use

1649, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of disapproval was in 1649

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Disapproval.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/disapproval. Accessed 27 Oct. 2026.

Kids Definition

disapproval

noun
1
: the act of disapproving : the state of being disapproved
frowned in disapproval
2
: unfavorable opinion or judgment : criticism
the plan met with disapproval
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