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repulse

Repulse (verb) – Meaning, Examples & Etymology

verb

IPA:

/rɪˈpʌls/

What does repulse mean?

To push back or repel something or someone that is approaching or attacking.
"The soldiers managed to repulse the enemy's attack at dawn."

Detailed Meaning of Repulse

It can also refer to the act of rejecting or rebuffing something or someone, or of causing a feeling of disgust or distaste. The word comes from the Latin word "repulsus" which means "repulsion" or "rebuff."

In everyday use, repulse refers to the act of pushing back or repelling something or someone that is approaching or attacking. For example, repelling an attack is the act of pushing back or repelling an attack, repulsing an advances is the act of pushing back or repelling an advances, and repulsing an invader is the act of pushing back or repelling an invader.

In literature, the term is often used to describe the act of pushing back or repelling something or someone that is approaching or attacking, that happens in the story. Additionally, it can be used in a more figurative sense, to describe the act of rejecting or rebuffing something or someone, or of causing a feeling of disgust or distaste, as in "repulsing a proposal"

In various fields, repulse can be used to describe the act of pushing back or repelling something or someone that is approaching or attacking, such as repulsing an enemy, repulsing a virus, or repulsing a fire. Additionally, it can be used to describe the act of rejecting or rebuffing something or someone, or of causing a feeling of disgust or distaste, such as repulsing a proposal, repulsing a job offer, or repulsing a person.

Example Sentences for Repulse

1. Soldiers repulse the invaders, defending the town’s gates with valor.
2. High walls repulse climbers, protecting the fortress’s secrets.
3. Gale force winds repulse sea waves, ensuring a calm coastline.
4. A green moat of plants repulse pests, safeguarding the harvest.
5. Armed security repulse trespassers, securing the estate’s peace.
6. Electric fences repulse wildlife, keeping the farm’s animals safe.

Origin and Etymology of Repulse

The verb 'repulse' can be traced back to its Latin root, 'repulsus,' which is the past participle of 'repellere.' This Latin term consists of 're,' indicating 'back,' and 'pellere,' meaning 'to drive' or 'to push.' The etymology of 'repulse' underscores the action of forcefully driving back or pushing away something or someone that is approaching or attacking. Over time, this word has been used to describe the act of rejecting or rebuffing advances, threats, or attacks, highlighting the defensive and protective nature of the concept. Whether in a physical or figurative context, 'repulse' signifies a robust response aimed at thwarting an oncoming force or influence.

Quiz Question - Test Your Understanding

Find the correct meaning of the verb repulse:

invite

welcome

attract

rebuff

Try Again!

Correct!

Continue Quiz

More Usage Examples of Repulse

1. Her powerful glare repulse suitors, guarding her solitude.
2. Vigilant guards repulse intruders, ensuring the museum’s safety.
3. Bitter chemicals repulse insects, preserving the crop’s yield.
4. The shield wall repulse warriors, sealing the kingdom’s fate.
5. Loud alarms repulse thieves, maintaining the store’s security.
6. Do not let your fears repulse your dreams from coming to fruition.
7. Strong negative emotions repulse happiness, creating an aura of discomfort.
8. We'll need to repulse the advancing storm by strengthening our defenses.
9. They were able to repulse the intense scrutiny of the public with their confident demeanor.
10. The team must work together to repulse the opposing side's relentless strikes.
11. Her strong personality was enough to repulse any negative comments thrown her way.
12. The magnetic fields around the planet repulse harmful cosmic radiation.
13. With the right mindset, you can repulse negative energy that comes your way.
14. It takes a strong will to repulse the temptations of procrastination.
15. His honesty helped him to repulse the false accusations against him.
16. Our immune system works tirelessly to repulse various pathogens from invading our bodies.
17. The village's sturdy fortifications managed to repulse the marauding invaders.
18. Our steadfast resolve will repulse any challenges that may arise.
19. The city's emergency services worked together to repulse the devastating effects of the hurricane.
20. You must repulse distractions to focus on your studies.
21. They were able to repulse the rumors with their convincing rebuttal.
22. You can repulse negativity with a cheerful spirit and kind heart.
23. Determination and hard work repulse failure, paving the way to success.