Exposed as false (8)
I believe the answer is:
debunked
'exposed as false' is the definition.
(I've seen this in another clue)
This is the entire clue.
(Other definitions for debunked that I've seen before include "ruined reputation?" , "Showed to be false or incorrect" , "Showed up as false or exaggerated" , "Uncovered pretentious or false claims and ideas" , "Cut down to size!" .)