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Repel Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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repel

[rɪˈpɛl ]

Definition

Context #1 | Verb

keep away

To drive or force (an attack or attacker) back or away. To resist effectively or remain unaltered by (a disease, drug, or other destructive force). To cause aversion or distaste in; nauseate. To be resistant to; be hostile or distasteful to: Chewing gum repels some people.

Synonyms

disgust, drive back, push back, resist, ward off.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
repel

Used to describe a forceful action to keep something away, often in a physical sense, but can also refer to emotional or mental repulsion.

  • The fortress was built to repel invaders.
  • Her strong personality seemed to repel any potential friends.
drive back

Often used in a military context or other situations where a force is actively returned to its original position.

  • The army managed to drive back the invading forces.
  • The police drove back the protesters with tear gas.
push back

Typically used in non-military contexts to explain resisting or delaying an action or event.

  • They had to push back the meeting due to scheduling conflicts.
  • The citizens pushed back against the new policy changes.
ward off

Used to describe preventing or protecting oneself from something harmful or undesirable.

  • She wore a special amulet to ward off evil spirits.
  • Eating garlic is believed to ward off colds.
resist

To withstand the action or effect of something; often used in broader and more abstract contexts, such as emotional or intellectual resistance.

  • He tried to resist the temptation to eat chocolate.
  • The community resisted the changes proposed by the city council.
disgust

Used to express a strong distaste or revulsion, usually in reaction to something unpleasant or offensive; has a negative connotation.

  • The rotten smell was enough to disgust anyone.
  • I was disgusted by his rude behavior.

Examples of usage

  • He used insect repellent to repel mosquitoes.
  • The strong scent of the cologne repelled her.
  • The bitter taste of the medicine repelled the child.
  • His arrogant attitude repels potential friends.
  • Her negativity repels positive energy.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Origin of 'repel'

The word 'repel' originated from the Latin word 'repellere', which means 'to drive back'. The term has been used in English since the 15th century, originally in the sense of 'drive back by force'. Over time, its meaning expanded to include the idea of causing aversion or distaste. The concept of repelling something or someone has been a common theme in various fields, from warfare to personal relationships.

Word Frequency Rank

At position #14,307, this word is part of sophisticated English vocabulary. It's useful for academic or professional contexts where precise language is needed.