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
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.
Example
She had to repulse the advances of her coworker, who kept asking her out on dates.
Example
The army was able to repulse the enemy's attack and protect their territory.
Phrases with repulse
Example
The sight of the dead animals repulsed her with horror.
Example
The army was able to repulse the enemy's invasion.
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.'
