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n. 1. A refusal to comply with or satisfy a request. 2. a. A refusal to grant the truth of a statement or allegation; a contradiction. b. Law The formal challenge by a defendant of the truth of an allegation made by the plaintiff. 3. a. A refusal to accept or believe something, such as a doctrine or belief. b. Psychology An unconscious defense mechanism characterized by refusal to acknowledge painful realities, thoughts, or feelings. 4. The act of disowning or disavowing; repudiation. 5. Abstinence; self-denial. [From DENY.] |
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