reductio
1. [ noun ] (mathematics,logic) a logical proof of a proposition by showing that its negation leads to a contradiction
Synonyms: reductio_ad_absurdum
Related terms: logical_proof
2. [ noun ] (reduction to the absurd) a disproof by showing that the consequences of the proposition are absurd; or a proof of a proposition by showing that its negation leads to a contradiction
Synonyms: reductio_ad_absurdum
Related terms: disproof
Similar spelling:   reduction
  reductive
  reductant
  redaction
  reductivism
  redactor
  reductase
  redact
  reduced