Dissent means to withhold approval or publicly disagree with an official opinion, decision, or set of beliefs. As a noun, it is that disagreement, including a judge’s written opposition to a court ruling.
What does dissent mean as a verb?
To dissent is to withhold assent and voice disagreement, often with an established authority or majority view. Merriam-Webster defines it as to withhold assent or approval and to differ in opinion. Someone might dissent from a committee’s decision or from a widely held belief, signaling open disagreement rather than quiet doubt.
What does dissent mean as a noun?
As a noun, dissent is the expression of disagreement with an official position or policy. It can describe political opposition, religious nonconformity, or any public difference of opinion from an accepted standard. Phrases like a voice of dissent point to this sense.
What is a dissent in law?
In courts, a dissent, or dissenting opinion, is a written statement by a judge who disagrees with the majority decision and explains the reasons. It does not change the ruling, but it records an alternative view that can influence later cases and debate.
Where does the word come from?
Dissent comes from the Latin dissentire, which joins dis, meaning apart, with sentire, meaning to feel or think. The literal sense is to feel or think apart, which fits its modern meaning of holding a different view from others.
What are synonyms and antonyms?
Synonyms include disagree, object, differ, and protest for the verb, and disagreement, objection, and opposition for the noun. Antonyms include assent, agree, agreement, and consent. Note the different word descent, meaning a downward movement, which sounds similar but is unrelated.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does dissent mean?
To withhold approval or publicly disagree with an official opinion or decision, and the disagreement itself.
What is a dissent in law?
A written statement by a judge explaining why they disagree with the majority decision in a case.
Where does the word dissent come from?
From Latin dissentire, combining dis meaning apart and sentire meaning to feel or think.
What is the opposite of dissent?
Assent, agreement, and consent are common antonyms.