prove

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prove / proōv/ • v. (past part. proved or prov·en / ˈproōvən/ ) 1. [tr.] demonstrate the truth or existence of (something) by evidence or argument: the concept is difficult to prove| [as adj.] (proven) a proven ability to work hard. ∎  [tr.] demonstrate by evidence or argument (someone or something) to be: innocent until proven guilty. ∎  Law establish the genuineness and validity of (a will). ∎  (in homeopathy) demonstrate the action of (a remedy) by seeing what effect it produces in a healthy individual. ∎  [intr.] be seen or found to be: the plan has proved a great success. ∎  (prove oneself) demonstrate one's abilities or courage: a new lieutenant, very green and very desperate to prove himself. ∎  [tr.] rare test the accuracy of (a mathematical calculation). ∎  subject (a gun or other item) to a testing process.2. [intr.] (of bread dough) become aerated by the action of yeast; rise.DERIVATIVES: prov·a·bil·i·ty / ˌproōvəˈbilətē/ n.prov·a·ble adj.prov·a·bly / -blē/ adv.prov·er n.

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