Denial

Definition

Denial refers to the refusal to accept or acknowledge the truth or reality of something, often involving a rejection of facts, evidence, or beliefs. It can also refer to the rejection of a request or claim.

Parts of Speech

• Noun

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /dɪˈnaɪəl/
• Respelling: dih-NY-uhl

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /dɪˈnaɪəl/
• Respelling: dih-NY-uhl

The pronunciation of "denial" is consistent in both American and British English.

Etymology

The word "denial" originates from the Old French "denial," which comes from the Latin word "denegare," meaning "to refuse" or "to deny." The term entered the English language in the 15th century, primarily used in legal and psychological contexts to indicate the refusal of requests, claims, or acceptance of reality.

Derivatives

• Deny (verb)
• Denied (adjective)
• Undeniable (adjective)
• Denier (noun)
• Self-denial (noun)

Synonyms

• Rejection
• Refusal
• Disavowal

Antonyms

• Acceptance
• Acknowledgment
• Approval

Usage

The word "denial" is frequently used in both psychological and everyday contexts. In psychology, it refers to a defense mechanism where individuals refuse to accept unpleasant facts or realities. In other contexts, it can refer to the rejection of a claim, request, or belief. For example: "His denial of the accusations was firm," or "The patient is in denial about their illness."

Related Terms

• Disavowal: The act of denying any responsibility or support for something.
• Rejection: The dismissal or refusal of a proposal, idea, or request.
• Negation: The contradiction or denial of something.

Detailed Definitions

Noun

• The act of refusing to accept the truth or reality of something: Refers to the psychological or emotional rejection of a fact, situation, or event.
  • Example: "He remained in denial about his addiction."
• The refusal to grant a request or claim: Refers to the act of turning down a formal or informal petition, claim, or desire.
  • Example: "The company's denial of her application was unexpected."