debunk
/diːˈbʊŋk/
Group 5Difficulty 1/3
Definition
- (verb)
- To expose the falseness of a myth, idea, or belief GRE
Example in Context
The investigative journalist debunked the conspiracy theory with a meticulous presentation of evidence that left no room for reasonable doubt.
Synonyms
disproveexposedeflate
Etymology
To bring down the nonsense or falsehood of a belief.
- de- (Latin) — down
- bunk (English) — nonsense
Memory Aid
🛏️Sounds like “dee-bunk”
Imagine a detective shouting, 'DEE-BUNK that myth!' while tossing a mattress filled with lies out the window!
Visual Association
🔍A detective dramatically tearing apart a false story, revealing the truth like pulling off a mask.
Semantic Clusters
Synonym Groups
Frequently Asked Questions
What does “debunk” mean on the GRE?
debunk (verb) means “To expose the falseness of a myth, idea, or belief”. The investigative journalist debunked the conspiracy theory with a meticulous presentation of evidence that left no room for reasonable doubt.
How to remember “debunk” for the GRE?
Mnemonic: “debunk” sounds like “dee-bunk”. Imagine a detective shouting, 'DEE-BUNK that myth!' while tossing a mattress filled with lies out the window!
What are synonyms for “debunk”?
Common synonyms: disprove, expose, deflate.