Vocabulary Spotlight
Debunk
Part of Speech: Verb
Definition: To expose the falseness or hollowness of a belief, myth, or idea.
“The scientist worked to debunk the myths surrounding climate change.”
Pronunciation
[dee-buhngk]
Synonyms, Antonyms & Related Words
Synonyms
Invalidate
Expose
Refute
Demystify
Antonyms
Verify
Support
Authenticate
Corroborate
Related Words
Debunker (noun)
Debunking (verb)
Word Origin
“Debunk” originated in the 1920s from “bunk,” meaning “nonsense” or “absurdity,” combined with “de-” to indicate the removal of false beliefs. It was popularized in American English to describe exposing fraudulent claims.
Word Family
Verb: Debunk – To expose falseness or invalid claims.
Noun: Debunker – One who debunks or exposes myths.
Noun: Debunking – The act of disproving or exposing.
Mnemonics
Remember “Debunk” as “De” + “Bunk,” where “bunk” refers to nonsense. Debunking means removing bunk or falsehood.
Another mnemonic: Imagine debunking as breaking down “bunk” myths to reveal truth.
Industry-specific Usage
Science
Scientists often debunk pseudoscientific claims to promote accurate understanding of phenomena.
Media
Fact-checkers in media organizations work to debunk misinformation and protect public knowledge.
History
Historians debunk myths about past events by researching and providing evidence-based narratives.
In Context
Debunking is a vital part of critical thinking and education, promoting accuracy and truth. In everyday life, people may debunk rumors to prevent misinformation. In academia, debunking is used to correct errors in research and understanding.