verb (used with object), re·but·ted, re·but·ting.
- to refute by evidence or argument.
- to oppose by contrary proof.
verb (used without object), re·but·ted, re·but·ting.
- to provide some evidence or argument that refutes or opposes.
verb -buts, -butting or -butted
- (tr) to refute or disprove, esp by offering a contrary contention or argument
c.1300, “to thrust back,” from Old French reboter, rebuter “to thrust back,” from re- “back” (see re-) + boter “to thrust, hit” (see butt (v.)). Legalese sense of “try to disprove, refute by evidence or argument” is from 1817. Related: Rebutted; rebutting.