1 [with object] demonstrate the truth or existence of (something) by evidence or argument:the concept is difficult to prove (as adjective proven)a proven ability to work hard
(USprove something up) Law establish the genuineness and validity of (a will).
2 [with object and complement] demonstrate to be the specified thing by evidence or argument:if they are proved guilty we won’t trade with them
[no object, with complement] be seen or found to be:the scheme has proved a great success
(prove oneself) demonstrate one’s abilities or courage:she displayed an ingenuousness which sprung from a yearning need to prove herself
[with object] rare test the accuracy of (a mathematical calculation).
[with object] subject (a gun) to a testing process:firearms proved for black powder should not be used with smokeless ammunition
3 [no object] (of bread dough) become aerated by the action of yeast; rise.
not proven
Scots Law a verdict that there is insufficient evidence to establish guilt or innocence.
prove someone wrong
show that what someone says is wrong or incorrect:if you can prove me wrong let me know and I’ll update the review
