dispositive

adjective

dis·​pos·​i·​tive di-ˈspä-zə-tiv How to pronounce dispositive (audio)
Synonyms of dispositivenext
: directed toward or effecting disposition (as of a case)
dispositive evidence

Examples of dispositive in a Sentence

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.
Again, though, those declines are not dispositive of anything but fear. — Jim Cramer, CNBC, 16 Mar. 2026 Though the flimsiness of the threat was widely noted, the issue was not dispositive. — Robert Goulder, Forbes.com, 2 Mar. 2026 That dispositive plan may have comported with husband’s wishes. — Martin Shenkman, Forbes, 20 Feb. 2025 However, and most importantly, no one should be deported or kept in custody without a neutral hearing for a dispositive decision to be reached, with legal counsel being made available to represent them. — James P. Gray, Oc Register, 1 Nov. 2025 See All Example Sentences for dispositive

Word History

First Known Use

circa 1618, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of dispositive was circa 1618

Rhymes for dispositive

See All Rhymes for dispositive

Browse Nearby Words

dispositios
dispositive
dispositively
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Dispositive.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/dispositive. Accessed 10 Jul. 2026.

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Legal Definition

dispositive

adjective
dis·​pos·​i·​tive dis-ˈpä-zə-tiv How to pronounce dispositive (audio)
1
: directed toward or effecting a disposition (as of a case)
an endless variety of dispositive…pretrial motions—Robert Shaw-Meadow
2
: relating to a disposition of property
dispositive words in a will
3
: providing a final resolution (as of an issue) : having control over an outcome
dispositive of the question

More from Merriam-Webster on dispositive

Thesaurus: All synonyms and antonyms for dispositive

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