Definition of "denial" in English

noun

1. An assertion of untruth.

   • The singer has issued a sweeping denial of all the rumors.

2. (logic) The negation in logic.

   • The denial of "There might be X" is the null, "False, there is no X."

3. A refusal or failure to provide or grant something that is requested or desired.

   • The denial of medical treatment to those who cannot afford to pay is scandalous.
   • I cannot understand the bank's denial of my loan application.
   • Every time we asked for an interview we got a denial.

4. Refusal to believe that a problem exists.

   • We couldn't break through his denial about being alcoholic.

5. Refusal to admit responsibility for wrongdoing.

6. Negationism, denialism of historical facts or accepted interpretation.

7. (psychology) A defense mechanism involving a refusal to accept the truth of a phenomenon or prospect.

   • He is in denial that he has a drinking problem.

8. A disownment or disavowal

   • The denial of Jesus by Peter.