denialism

noun

de·​ni·​al·​ism di-ˈnī(-ə)l-ˌi-zəm How to pronounce denialism (audio)
dē-
: the practice of denying the existence, truth, or validity of something despite proof or strong evidence that it is real, true, or valid
This depressing tale is the latest incarnation of denialism, the systematic rejection of a body of science in favour of make-believe.Debora MacKenzie
He [Henry Puna] said climate change denialism jeopardised the future of Pacific countries: "Some are not willing to accept the stark realities."Ben Doherty
The problem of vaccine denialism is closely tied to the problem of information and authority in the digital age. People prone to skepticism can cover themselves with layers of pseudo-science and conspiracy theories that thicken and harden like papier mache.Michael Gerson
Getting accurate information across in the face of this science denialism is something of a minefield, as there is evidence that attempts to correct misinformation may backfire, further entrenching the beliefs of science deniers instead.Cathleen O'Grady

Examples of denialism in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web Opinion The Great Democratic Freakout is upon us Opinion Trump’s unqualified VP faves might mean a Palin redux for the GOP Opinion Election denialism isn’t gone. Eugene Robinson, Washington Post, 1 July 2024 These days, there’s little trace of climate denialism among the Hollywood studios. Gary Baum, The Hollywood Reporter, 24 June 2024 What an insult for GOP voters Lake has also made election denialism a prominent subject in her public comments since her narrow 2022 gubernatorial loss to Democrat Katie Hobbs. Ronald J. Hansen, The Arizona Republic, 23 May 2024 Election denialism puts election workers in harm’s way, undermines faith in democratic institutions, and inspired a violent attack on the U.S. Capitol on Jan. 6, 2021. Krista Kafer, The Denver Post, 12 June 2024 See all Example Sentences for denialism 

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'denialism.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

Etymology

denial + -ism

First Known Use

1874, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of denialism was in 1874

Dictionary Entries Near denialism

Cite this Entry

“Denialism.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/denialism. Accessed 15 Jul. 2024.

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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