invalidate
UK: ɪnˈvælɪdeɪt | US: ɪnˈvælɪdeɪt
vt. to make something legally or logically void
vt. to weaken or undermine the validity of something
vt. to disprove or nullify an argument or claim
The word "invalidate" combines the Latin prefix "in-" (meaning "not") with the root "valid" (from Latin "validus," meaning "strong" or "legally binding") and the verb-forming suffix "-ate." Originally used in legal contexts to mean "render void," it later expanded to general usage, indicating the act of weakening or nullifying something's legitimacy. The progression reflects a shift from concrete legal annulment to broader conceptual undermining.
The court ruling could invalidate the entire contract.
New evidence may invalidate the previous scientific theory.
A single error can invalidate the results of the experiment.
His failure to sign the document will invalidate the agreement.
The judge decided to invalidate the outdated law.