Definition

A situation where someone refuses to accept or believe something that is true or real.

Example

His denial of the facts made it difficult to resolve the issue.

Conversation

I can't believe he's still in denial about what happened last week.

Yeah, it's tough to watch him ignore the truth.

I tried talking to him, but he just brushed it off.

Maybe he needs more time to accept it.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Denial is formed from "de-" (meaning down or away) and "narrāre" (meaning to tell or declare). The word describes the act of refusing to acknowledge or tell the truth about something, effectively pushing it away from acceptance.

Memory Tip

Think of 'pushing away' ('de-') the truth or what is being 'told' ('narrāre') — that's why denial means refusing to accept something.

Visually Confused Words