Repellency Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

🚫

Add to dictionary

repellency

[rɪˈpɛlənsi ]

Definition

^{Context #1 | Noun}

use in a sentence

The repellency of the new coating is impressive, as it repels water and dirt effectively. It is a quality that makes the product stand out from the competition.

Synonyms

aversion, resistance, unattractiveness.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
repellency	Commonly used to describe the ability of a material or substance to repel something, such as water or insects. The repellency of this fabric makes it perfect for outdoor use. The insect repellency of the spray was effective for hours.
resistance	Typically used to indicate opposition or the ability to withstand something, such as pressure, disease, or change. The resistance to antibiotics is a growing concern in medicine. She showed great resistance against peer pressure.
unattractiveness	Used to describe the quality of not being appealing or attractive, often in a negative way. The unattractiveness of the proposal caused it to be rejected. The unattractiveness of the city outskirts deterred tourists.
aversion	Often used to describe a strong dislike or reluctance towards something or someone. She has a strong aversion to spiders. His aversion to public speaking prevented him from taking the job.

Examples of usage

The repellency of the fabric ensures that spills can be easily wiped off without leaving stains.
The repellency of the insect repellent keeps mosquitoes and other bugs at bay during outdoor activities.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Science

In materials science, repellency often describes how waterproof materials resist water absorption.
Some insects, like mosquitoes, exhibit repellency to certain scents or substances, which can help us understand natural repellents.
In biology, some plants produce oils that have high repellency to herbivores, protecting them from being eaten.

Everyday Life

Repellency is a key feature in products like bug spray, which is designed to keep insects away.
Raincoats and umbrellas utilize materials with high repellency to keep you dry in wet weather.
Some repellents work by making the skin unpleasant for bugs, ensuring they stay far away from humans.

Psychology

The concept of repellency can also be applied to social dynamics, where certain personality traits may repel others.
Fear or anxiety can create a psychological form of repellency, causing people to avoid certain situations or individuals.
Human behavior often involves subconscious repellency towards activities or habits that are perceived as harmful.

Technology

In the world of nanotechnology, surfaces can be engineered to have extreme repellency to liquids, allowing them to remain clean.
Repellency principles are used in designing self-cleaning surfaces, where particles and dirt are easily washed away.
Tech innovations involve creating fabrics with high repellency, offering both fashionable and functional features.

Origin of 'repellency'

Main points about word origin

The word comes from the Latin 'repellere', which means 'to drive back' or 'to push away'.
The prefix 're-' suggests a sense of doing again, while 'pellere' means to push, highlighting the action of pushing away.
It has been used in the English language since the late 19th century, primarily in scientific contexts.

The word 'repellency' is derived from the verb 'repel', with the suffix '-ency' indicating a state or quality. The concept of repellency has been important throughout history, from natural substances used to repel insects to modern technological advancements in creating repellent coatings. The ability to repel unwanted elements has been valued for its practical applications in various fields.