Disapproval is the feeling that something is wrong or bad, or the act of showing that feeling. When a teacher gives you a look of disapproval after you talk during a test, she's letting you know she doesn't approve of your behavior. When your parents express disapproval of staying up too late on school nights, they're making it clear they think it's a poor choice.

Disapproval sits somewhere between mild disagreement and serious anger. It's stronger than simply not liking something, but it's not furious outrage. You might sense disapproval in a disappointed sigh, a frown, or someone shaking their head. A coach might show disapproval when players don't hustle during practice. A librarian might give a look of disapproval to students who are being too loud.

The word can also describe a formal rejection. When a committee votes its disapproval of a plan, they're officially saying no to it.

Notice that disapproval often comes with judgment: it conveys “this isn't right” or “you should know better,” rather than just a personal preference. When you meet with someone's disapproval, you've done something they think you shouldn't have.