Definition

Having the ability to bounce back or cause a sound to echo; often used to describe effects that return or rebound.

Example

The repercussive effects of the loud music could be felt throughout the entire building.

Conversation

Did you hear that sound echoing in the hallway?

Yeah, it sounded really repercussive, like it was bouncing off the walls.

I wonder what caused it; it felt almost haunting.

Maybe it's just the acoustics of this place that make things sound so repercussive.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Definition

A repellent is something that keeps away or drives off unwanted things, often used in the context of insects or pests.

Example

The new spray is an effective repercussive against mosquitoes.

Conversation

I just read about this new insect repercussive that can repel pests.

That sounds interesting! How does it work?

Apparently, it emits a sound that keeps them away without harming them.

Root Explanation

Repercussive → It is formed from "re-" (meaning again) and "percutere" (meaning to strike). The word describes something that strikes back or has an effect that reverberates again.

Memory Tip

Think of something that 'strikes back' ('re-' means again and 'percutere' means to strike) — that's why repercussive refers to effects that resonate or echo.

Visually Confused Words