Langimage
English

nullify

|nul/li/fy|

C1

🇺🇸

/ˈnʌlɪˌfaɪ/

🇬🇧

/ˈnʌlɪfaɪ/

invalidate

Etymology
Etymology Information

'nullify' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'nullificare,' where 'nullus' meant 'none' and 'facere' meant 'to make.'

Historical Evolution

'nullificare' transformed into the French word 'nullifier,' and eventually became the modern English word 'nullify' through Middle English.

Meaning Changes

Initially, it meant 'to make none,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'to invalidate or make ineffective.'

Meanings by Part of Speech

Verb 1

to make something legally null and void; invalidate.

The court's decision will nullify the contract.

Synonyms

Antonyms

Verb 2

to make something lose its value or effect.

The new evidence could nullify the previous findings.

Synonyms

Antonyms

Last updated: 2025/01/11 11:35