repeal
Intermediate (B1)
IPA: /rɪˈpiːl/
KK: /rɪˈpil/
noun
Definition
The action of officially ending or canceling a law or rule.
Example
The government decided to pass a repeal of the outdated law.
Conversation
Did you hear about the recent repeal of that old law?
Yeah, I was surprised they finally did it after all these years.
I think it was a good move; it didn't make sense anymore.
Totally agree! Sometimes laws just need a repeal to keep up with society.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
revocation
abrogation
annulment
Antonyms
enactment
establishment
confirmation
transitive verb
Definition
To officially cancel or remove a law, rule, or decision.
Example
The government decided to repeal the outdated law.
Tense Forms
Past: repealed
Past Participle: repealed
Conversation
Did you hear they might repeal that new law about public smoking?
Really? I thought it was supposed to stay in place for a while.
Yeah, it seems like there’s a lot of debate about it.
Root Explanation
Repeal → It is formed from "re-" (meaning again) and "pellere" (meaning to drive or push). The word "repeal" means to drive back or cancel something again, typically referring to a law or regulation.
Memory Tip
Think of the idea of 'driving back' something that was previously established — 're-' means again, and 'pellere' means to push or drive.
Visually Confused Words
reappeal
reveal
reseal
repale
reheal
redeal
reprieval
reel