repulse

[riˈpʌls]

repulse Definition

  • 1drive back (an attack or attacker) by force
  • 2cause (someone) to feel intense distaste and aversion

Using repulse: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "repulse" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

  • Example

    The army repulsed the enemy's attack.

  • Example

    The smell of the food repulsed me.

  • Example

    Her rude behavior repulsed everyone in the room.

  • Example

    He tried to kiss her, but she repulsed him.

repulse Synonyms and Antonyms

Antonyms for repulse

Idioms Using repulse

  • to feel an immediate and strong dislike or aversion towards someone or something upon first seeing them

    Example

    She felt a repulse at first sight when she met her new boss.

  • to reject someone's romantic or sexual advances

    Example

    She had to repulse the advances of her coworker, who kept asking her out on dates.

  • to successfully drive back or defeat an attacking enemy

    Example

    The army was able to repulse the enemy's attack and protect their territory.

Phrases with repulse

  • to cause someone to feel extreme disgust or revulsion

    Example

    The sight of the dead animals repulsed her with horror.

  • to successfully defend against an invading force

    Example

    The army was able to repulse the enemy's invasion.

  • to reject a proposal or offer

    Example

    She repulsed his marriage proposal, saying that she was not ready for marriage yet.

Origins of repulse

from Latin 'repulsus', past participle of 'repellere', meaning 'to drive back'

📌

Summary: repulse in Brief

The verb 'repulse' [riˈpʌls] has two main meanings: to forcefully drive back an attack or attacker, and to cause intense distaste and aversion. Examples include 'The army repulsed the enemy's attack' and 'The smell of the food repulsed me.' Phrases like 'repulse with horror' and idioms like 'repulse at first sight' further illustrate the intensity of the feeling. 'Repulse' is often used formally, as in 'rebuff' or 'reject,' but can also be used informally, as in 'gross out' or 'turn off.'