What is repulse? How to use in English

Discover the meaning of repulse in English, its pronunciation, and how to use it correctly in real-life situations. See examples and easy memorization tips.

Definition & pronunciation of repulse

repulseverb

Repulse

/rɪˈpʌls//rɪˈpʌls/

Where does the word repulse come from?

The word "repulse" originated in the early 16th century and has its roots in the Old French word "repulser," which meant "to push back." The Latin counterpart of this word was "repellere," meaning "drive back" or "repel." In Middle English, the Old French word was adapted to "repussen," which meant "oppress" or "to constrain." Over time, the meaning of the word evolved to represent feelings of rejection, aversion, or disapproval. The modern usage of the word "repulse" can refer to both objects and actions that deter or combat another force. For instance, a battle ship named HMS Repulse was launched in the 1916 for the Royal Navy, where it was used to shield British forces during World War II. Today, "repulse" is still commonly used as a verb, with meanings that range from preventing someone from doing something to making someone feel aversive feelings towards something or someone. In summary, the word "repulse" originated from the Old French word "repulser," which later transformed into the English word "repulse." Its meaning changed over time, and it continues to have multiple definitions in contemporary English.

Vocabulary summary repulse

typenoun

meaning(military) repulse (of an attack)

exampleto repulse an attack

exampleto meet with (suffer) a repulse

meaningrejection

typetransitive verb

meaning(military) repel, push back

exampleto repulse an attack

exampleto meet with (suffer) a repulse

meaningdefeat (someone) in a polemic, defeat (someone) in a debate

meaningrefuse

exampleto repulse a request

exampleto repulse someone's friendly advances

Example of vocabulary repulsenamespace

meaning

to make somebody feel strong dislike

  • I was repulsed by the horrible smell.
meaning

to fight somebody who is attacking you and drive them away

  • to repulse an attack/invasion/offensive
meaning

to refuse to accept somebody’s help, attempts to be friendly, etc.

  • Each time I tried to help I was repulsed.
  • She repulsed his advances.

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