# discredited

/dɪsˈkɹɛdɪtɪd/ (US) · /dɪskɹˈɛdɪtɪd/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Adjective

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/discredited
Updated: 2026-05-08

## Definition

describing an idea, person, or piece of information that people no longer trust or believe is true. It is used when something has been proven wrong or dishonest.

For teachers: having lost a reputation for reliability, honesty, or validity. Often describes scientific theories, political figures, or evidence that has been formally refuted.

## Examples

- The scientist's old theory is now completely discredited.
- After the scandal was revealed, the politician's once-popular policies became discredited in the eyes of the public.
- The defense attorney argued that the witness's testimony should be ignored, as it relied on a discredited forensic technique that has since been replaced by DNA analysis.

## Usage notes

- Often follows a linking verb like 'become', 'remain', or 'be'.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.