nullify

[nuhl-uh-fahy]

verb (used with object)

nullified, nullifying 

1. to render or declare legally void or inoperative.

   to nullify a contract.

   Synonyms: cancel, void, annul, invalidate

2. to deprive (something) of value or effectiveness; make futile or of no consequence.

   Synonyms: cancel, void, annul, invalidate

nullify

/ ˈnʌlɪˌfaɪ /

verb

1. to render legally void or of no effect

2. to render ineffective or useless; cancel out

Other Word Forms

• nullification noun
• nullifier noun
• renullify verb (used with object)
• unnullified adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of nullify¹

First recorded in 1585–95, nullify is from the Late Latin word nūllificāre to despise. See nulli-, -fy

Word History and Origins

Origin of nullify¹

C16: from Late Latin nullificāre to despise, from Latin nullus of no account + facere to make

Example Sentences

The goal here is to nullify the votes of Democrats, especially in the so-called battleground states.

From Salon

That all of this was more than nullified by the brutality of these regimes is obvious.

From Salon

The first clear sign that the administration was working with the state’s Republican leadership to bypass lawmakers was its successful June 4 effort to nullify the Texas Dream Act.

From Salon

He had a smooth punt return Saturday that was nullified by a penalty.

From Los Angeles Times

And he vowed to “nullify” what happens in Texas.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• abolish 
• abrogate 
• annul 
• invalidate 
• negate 
• offset 
• quash 
• repeal 
• rescind 
• restrict 
• torpedo 
• undo 
• veto 
• void 
• wipe out