Deniable

/dɪˈnaɪəbəl/ adjective

Definition

Able to be denied or disputed; something that can be reasonably claimed to be untrue or non-existent.

Etymology

From 'deny' (from Latin 'denegare') plus the suffix '-able' (capable of being), formed in English since the 16th century.

Kelly Says

The phrase 'plausible deniability' is beloved by politicians and spies—it describes actions deniable enough that leaders can claim they didn't know about them, creating a protective fog of uncertainty.

Related Words

Explore More Words

Get the Word Orb API

Complete word intelligence in one call. Free tier — 50 lookups/day.