Disbelieved Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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disbelieved

[dษชs.bษชหˆliหvd ]

Definition

Context #1 | Verb

belief rejection

Disbelieved is the past tense of disbelieve, which means to not believe or to reject the truth or existence of something. It is often used in contexts where someone doubts a claim or statement made by another.

Synonyms

discredit, doubt, reject.

Examples of usage

  • She disbelieved his explanation.
  • Many disbelieved the rumors about the company.
  • He disbelieved the evidence presented in court.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Psychology

  • Skepticism can be healthy as it encourages critical thinking and questioning, leading to better decision-making.
  • People often disbelieve information that contradicts their existing beliefs, a phenomenon known as 'cognitive dissonance.'

Literature

  • In many classic and modern stories, characters who disbelieve often face challenges that ultimately lead them to uncover the truth.
  • Famous literary works often explore themes of belief and disbelief, reflecting broader societal issues and human nature.

Pop Culture

  • Movies and TV shows frequently depict characters who disbelieve in supernatural events, leading to humorous or dramatic moments.
  • In popular music, themes of disbelief often address relationships, especially when one partner has doubts about the other's honesty.

Science

  • Scientific skepticism is important; scientists must often disbelieve claims until there is sufficient evidence to support them.
  • Studies show that people tend to disbelieve scientific information that conflicts with their beliefs or values, affecting public understanding of topics like climate change.

Origin of 'disbelieved'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from 'dis-' meaning 'not' and 'believe' which has roots in the Old English word 'geleafa', meaning trust.
  • This term has been used since at least the 16th century, showcasing how skepticism has been part of human thought for a long time.

The word 'disbelieve' is derived from the prefix 'dis-', which conveys negation or reversal, combined with 'believe', which comes from the Old English 'gelฤ“afa' meaning faith or belief. The transformation to 'disbelieve' suggests a conscious choice to reject something previously accepted. The formation of the word reflects the complexity of human thought concerning belief and skepticism. Over time, its use has become prevalent in literature and conversation, especially in contexts of doubt or disbelief in societal narratives or personal assertions. The first known use of 'disbelieve' can be traced back to the 16th century, and it has fulfilled a crucial role in discussions around faith, truth, and evidence.


Word Frequency Rank

At rank #28,493, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.