Disgust: meaning, definitions and examples

Disgust is used when someone feels a strong sense of dislike or distaste, often towards something physically unpleasant or morally offensive.

• She felt disgust when she saw the dirty kitchen
• His actions filled her with disgust

Revulsion is a strong feeling of disgust or loathing, often to something shocking or offensive.

• He felt a sense of revulsion when he saw the violence
• Her revulsion was evident when she tasted the spoiled food

Repugnance is a strong feeling of disgust or dislike, often to something that is offensive or distasteful. It has a somewhat formal tone.

• The thought of lying filled him with repugnance
• She couldn't hide her repugnance at the smell

Aversion indicates a strong dislike or unwillingness to do something or be near someone or something.

• He has an aversion to spiders
• She felt an aversion towards loud music

Abhorrence is a strong feeling of hatred or disgust, usually towards something morally wrong or deeply offensive.

• He spoke with abhorrence about the corruption in the government
• The idea of animal cruelty filled her with abhorrence

Use when someone or something causes a strong feeling of dislike or disapproval.

• The sight of the dirty kitchen disgusted her
• His rude comments disgust me

Use when describing a strong feeling of pushing away or being pushed away, often used in a physical or emotional context.

• The sight of the insect repelled her
• His arrogance repels his colleagues

Use when something makes someone feel ill or deeply upset, often in a broader or more emotional sense than just physical nausea.

• The thought of the crime sickened her
• The injustice of the situation sickens me

Use when referring to physically feeling like you want to vomit.

• The smell of the spoiled milk was enough to nauseate anyone
• The spinning ride at the amusement park nauseates me

Use when referring to a strong reaction of shock or horror that often leads to rejection or protest, typically more intense and with a sense of moral outrage.

• The cruel treatment of animals revolted many people
• The scandalous behavior of the politician revolted his supporters