Everyday · Arguing & persuading · Science & thinking
Debunk: meaning, pronunciation and examples
Debunk verb. To show that a claim, belief or reputation is false or exaggerated.
How to say it
dee-BUNK/diːˈbʌŋk/
2 syllables, stressed on the second (BUNK). Forms: debunks.
Debunk in a sentence
The video debunks the idea that we only use ten per cent of our brains.
Every few years someone debunks the myth, and every few years it comes back.
Similar and opposite
Similar:
- disprove
- expose
- refute
- discredit
Opposite:
- confirm
- support
Where debunk comes from
Coined in 1920s America from bunk, short for bunkum, meaning nonsense.
Test yourself
Which word fills the gap?
Every few years someone _____ the myth, and every few years it comes back.
- debunk
- cavil
- rebut
Show the answer
debunk: Every few years someone debunks the myth, and every few years it comes back.