The most common and most likely answer to this crossword clue is the 8 letter word REBUTTAL
I've seen this crossword clue in The Times
R
E
B
U
T
T
A
L
More clues leading to the result REBUTTAL
- Thick end in actual counterargument
- Contradiction’s genuine about object of ridicule
- Disproof in due course turning round objection
- Disproof concerning what Jeeves would do, we hear
- Target of ridicule in genuine denial
- Target, outwardly authentic, proving false
- Denial of strike from head: actual lines
- Defence is behind in concrete case
- Republican for all to see in stormy battle supplying contrary argument
- Victim at heart of sincere denial
Buddy explains!
The straight part
We know that "proving false" is the straight/definition part of the clue. The straight part is often a synonym or definition, in this case proving false = rebuttal.The cryptic/wordplay part
In cryptic crossword there's often an wordplay/cryptic part as well.This part involves a more complex hint, such as an anagram, homophone, hidden word, etc.
Sadly, We don't have an explanation for this specific crossword clue yet.
What does REBUTTAL mean?
REBUTTAL noun- The act of refuting something by making a contrary argument, or presenting contrary evidence.
- A statement, designed to refute or negate specific arguments put forward by opponents.
- A pleading by a defendant in reply to the evidence put forward by a plaintiff or the prosecution.