disclaim

/dɪsˈkleɪm/

Other forms: disclaims; disclaimed; disclaiming

To disclaim is to deny, usually in order to avoid blame. If you push your brother and he trips and falls, you might disclaim responsibility for the action, saying he is just clumsy.

If you decide to go skydiving, the company you dive with will likely you ask you to sign a disclaimer of liability. This is a form that says you will not sue the company if you injure yourself on the dive. In it, they disclaim liability for your undertaking this dangerous activity. Obligations to do something and product warranties can also be disclaimed which means that they will not be honored.

Definitions of disclaim

1. verb

   make a disclaimer about
   “He disclaimed any responsibility”

   antonyms:

   claim

   assert or affirm strongly; state to be true or existing

   type of:

   deny

   declare untrue; contradict
2. verb

   renounce a legal claim or title to
   antonyms:

   claim

   lay claim to; as of an idea

   arrogate, claim, lay claim

   demand as being one's due or property; assert one's right or title to

   type of:

   foreswear, forsake, quit, relinquish, renounce

   turn away from; give up