rebut

Definition

To drive back or beat back; to repulse.

Etymology

Inherited from Middle English rebutten, rebouten, from Old French reboter, rebuter, rebouter, etc., from re- + boter, buter, bouter (“to butt”). Entered English around 1302-1307.

Example Sentences

• "Who him r'encountring fierce, as hauke in flight, / Perforce rebutted backe."
• "Rebutting allegations that Scotland's railways had been deliberately run down, he pointed out that in the past nine years over £70m had been spent on their development."