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Debunker: meaning, definitions and examples

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debunker

 

[ dɪˈbʌŋ.kər ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

myth dispeller

A debunker is someone who exposes the falseness or hollowness of a myth, belief, or idea. They often reveal truths behind widely held misconceptions, helping to clarify or inform the public on matters that may be misleading. Debunkers are particularly important in fields like science and media, where misinformation can spread easily.

Synonyms

discreditor, exposer, refuter, skeptic

Examples of usage

  • The debunker revealed the truth behind the urban legend.
  • He works as a debunker for conspiracy theories.
  • Her role as a debunker helped clarify many misunderstandings.

Etymology

The term 'debunker' was coined in the early 20th century, primarily in the context of skepticism toward supernatural claims and pseudoscience. It derives from the verb 'debunk,' which means to expose the sham or falseness of something. The prefix 'de-' signifies removal, while 'bunk' is a colloquial term for nonsense or foolishness, creating a compound that literally means to remove the nonsense. This word gained extensive usage in the context of critical thinking and rational discourse, particularly during the mid-20th century, as skepticism grew towards various social and scientific issues. Debunkers like Martin Gardner and others played significant roles in the popularization of this concept, leading to a broader cultural emphasis on evidence-based reasoning.

Word Frequency Rank

At position #41,621, this word is among the less frequently used terms in English. While interesting to know, it's not crucial for most English learners unless needed for specific purposes.