Definition

Something that has been thrown away or is considered worthless.

Example

The refuse from the construction site was piled high in the dumpster.

Conversation

I can't believe they threw away those refuse items.

I know, right? It seems so wasteful to just discard them.

Yeah, they could have donated the refuse instead of tossing it.

Absolutely! Someone else could really use those things.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Definition

To decline to accept or do something.

Example

She decided to refuse the invitation to the party.

Tense Forms

Conversation

I can't believe she decided to refuse the invitation to the party.

I know, right? It seemed like a fun event.

Maybe she just wanted some time to herself and didn't want to deal with a crowd.

Definition

Items that are thrown away because they are no longer wanted or considered useful; this can include trash or waste materials.

Example

The park was filled with refuse after the festival, and volunteers worked hard to clean it up.

Conversation

I was cleaning out my garage and found a box full of old refuse.

Wow, that's a lot of junk! What are you going to do with it?

I think I’ll just take it all to the recycling center.

Definition

To say no to something or someone, showing that you do not want to accept, do, or allow it.

Example

She decided to refuse the invitation to the party.

Tense Forms

Conversation

Did you hear that Sarah refused to go to the party?

Yeah, I heard she wasn't feeling well.

I don't get why she would refuse an invitation like that.

Root Explanation

Refuse → It is formed from "re-" (meaning again) and "fusus" (from the Latin "fundere", meaning to pour). The word originally described the act of pouring back or rejecting something.

Memory Tip

Think of 'pouring back' ('re-') something that is not wanted ('fusus'). This helps you remember that 'refuse' means to reject or decline something.

Visually Confused Words