Misproof

noun

noun ·Rare ·Advanced level

Definitions

Noun
  1. 1
    A mathematical proof that contains logical errors. countable

    "Only a misproof of Nöebling [66] (for any m) ensued in the 1930's."

  2. 2
    Evidence or convincing argument that misleads one to the wrong conclusion. countable, uncountable

    "Misproof occurs when some other than the proposition stated is proved. This may occur from confusion, or may be intentional, as in attacking the character of an opponent (argumentum ad hominem); appealing to the prejudice (ad populum); or to authority without evidence of validity (ad verecundiam)."

  3. 3
    Evidence that contradicts or casts doubt on. obsolete, uncountable

    "That he could claim close kinship with a maiden so sweet and fair as Phyllis Maybird seemed almost incredible, but her own words placed the matter beyond misproof or doubt."

Example

More examples

"Only a misproof of Nöebling [66] (for any m) ensued in the 1930's."

Etymology

From mis- + proof.

More for "misproof"

SynonymsSentencesPronunciationTranslate

Next best steps

Find stronger synonymsSee usage examplesCheck pronunciationBrowse writing guides

Data sourced from Wiktionary, WordNet, CMU, and other open linguistic databases. Updated March 2026.