from
The Collaborative International Dictionary of English v.0.48
refute \re*fute"\ (r[-e]*f[=u]t"), v. t. [imp. & p. p.
{Refuted}; p. pr. & vb. n. {Refuting}.] [F. r['e]futer, L.
refuteare to repel, refute. Cf. {Confute}, {Refuse} to deny.]
To disprove and overthrow by argument, evidence, or
countervailing proof; to prove to be false or erroneous; to
confute; as, to refute arguments; to refute testimony; to
refute opinions or theories; to refute a disputant.
[1913 Webster]
There were so many witnesses in these two miracles that
it is impossible to refute such multitudes. --Addison.
[1913 Webster]
Syn: To confute; disprove. See {Confute}.
[1913 Webster]