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Repugnance Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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repugnance

[rɪˈpʌɡnəns ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

feeling of disgust

Repugnance is a strong feeling of disgust or aversion towards something. It is often characterized by a deep sense of revulsion or repulsion.

Synonyms

aversion, disgust, repulsion, revulsion.

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Word Description / Examples
repugnance

Used to describe a strong feeling of dislike or disgust towards something, often on moral or ethical grounds.

  • She felt a sense of repugnance at the unfair treatment of employees
disgust

Used to describe a feeling of intense dislike or revulsion caused by something offensive, unsettling, or distasteful.

  • The sight of the spoiled food filled her with disgust
aversion

Used to describe a strong dislike or disinclination toward something, often implying a preference to avoid it.

  • He has a strong aversion to public speaking
revulsion

Used to describe a sudden feeling of intense disgust or loathing, often resulting in a physical reaction.

  • He felt a wave of revulsion when he saw the graphic images
repulsion

Used to describe a strong feeling of disgust or distaste, often in a physical sense, indicating a desire to stay away from something.

  • The bad smell in the room created a sense of repulsion

Examples of usage

  • The repugnance he felt towards the idea of eating insects was evident on his face.
  • She couldn't hide her repugnance towards the smell of rotten eggs.
  • I couldn't overcome my repugnance towards the sight of blood.
  • The repugnance towards violence is a common human trait.
  • His repugnance towards dishonesty was well known among his colleagues.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Psychology

  • Feeling repugnance can be linked to our survival instincts, helping us avoid harmful substances.
  • It often involves a combination of sensory rejection (like smell) and moral judgment.
  • Research shows that disgust can trigger strong emotional responses, linked to experiences of fear and danger.

Literature

  • Many writers use the word to convey characters' deep aversions, enhancing emotional storytelling.
  • In literary classics, repugnance can serve as a theme that reflects societal norms or personal conflicts.
  • Shakespeare often used such strong emotions to illustrate characters' internal struggles and moral dilemmas.

Cultural Perspectives

  • Different cultures can have varying standards for what is considered repugnant behavior, influenced by traditions and societal norms.
  • In some cultures, certain foods might evoke repugnance due to unique taboos or historical contexts.
  • Expressions of repugnance can be seen in art and media, often reflecting societal issues or cultural critiques.

Health and Biology

  • Repugnance can be a biological response, signaling to the body to avoid potentially toxic foods or situations.
  • Some studies indicate that the feeling may help in building immunity by avoiding harmful bacteria or viruses.
  • The emotion of disgust is not just psychological; it has physiological effects, such as changes in heart rate and gut reactions.

Origin of 'repugnance'

Main points about word origin

  • The term comes from the Latin word 'repugnare,' which means 'to fight back' or 'to resist'.
  • It has roots in the word 'pugnare,' which relates to fighting, showing how something can make you want to push it away.
  • It entered the English vocabulary around the late 15th century.

The word 'repugnance' originated from the Latin word 'repugnantia', which means opposition or resistance. It has been used in the English language since the early 17th century. The concept of repugnance has been a part of human experience for centuries, with various cultures expressing strong feelings of disgust or aversion towards certain things or actions.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #20,839, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.