debunking
|de/bunk/ing|
B2
/dɪˈbʌŋkɪŋ/
(debunk)
expose falsehoods
Etymology
Etymology Information
'debunk' originates from the English word 'bunk,' which meant 'nonsense.' The prefix 'de-' was added to indicate removal or reversal.
Historical Evolution
'bunk' was used in American English to describe something as nonsense, and 'debunk' was coined in the 20th century to mean exposing such nonsense.
Meaning Changes
Initially, it meant 'to remove nonsense,' and over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'exposing falsehoods.'
Meanings by Part of Speech
Verb 1
to expose the falseness or hollowness of a myth, idea, or belief.
The scientist spent years debunking the myth that vaccines cause autism.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Idioms
Last updated: 2025/01/11 11:40