Repulsed: meaning, definitions and examples

Etymology

• The word comes from the Latin 'repulsus', meaning to push back or drive away.
• Originally, 'repulsus' was used in contexts of physical resistance, later evolving to describe emotional reactions.
• The prefix 're-' implies a backward motion, while 'pulsus' relates to push, together signifying a strong rejection.

Psychology

• The feeling of being repulsed can trigger the body's 'fight or flight' response, preparing you to escape the source of discomfort.
• Psychologists study repulsion to understand emotional boundaries and social norms, as certain behaviors can trigger this reaction.
• Physical reactions to being repulsed include facial expressions, such as wrinkling the nose and squinting the eyes, which serve as social signals.

Pop Culture

• Repulsion is often used in horror films to elicit strong emotional responses from audiences, with shocking visuals or themes.
• In literature, characters may express repulsion in critical moments, highlighting moral conflicts or emotional struggles.
• The film 'Repulsion', directed by Roman Polanski, explores themes of mental illness and fear, leading to disturbing depictions of how one can be overwhelmed by repulsion.

Sociology

• Cultural norms greatly influence what behaviors or objects are deemed repulsive, demonstrating how social context shapes personal reactions.
• Repulsion often serves as a method of social control, guiding acceptable behaviors and promoting conformity within a group.
• Studies show that people can feel repulsed based on societal standards, leading to labels such as 'taboo' that vary across cultures.

With rank #15,376, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.

• ...
• 15373 simplifying
• 15374 endlessly
• 15375 machined
• 15376 repulsed
• 15377 laudable
• 15378 ornamentation
• 15379 fiat
• ...