repulse
Intermediate (B1)
IPA: /rɪˈpʌls/
KK: /rɪˈpʌls/
noun
Definition
The act of rejecting or driving back someone or something, often in a forceful way.
Example
The repulse of the enemy forces was a significant victory for the defenders.
Conversation
Did you hear about the repulse at the party last night?
Yeah, I heard someone got turned down pretty harshly.
That must have been tough for them; getting a repulse like that can sting.
Definitely, but it happens to everyone at some point.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
rejection
repulsion
refusal
Antonyms
acceptance
approval
embrace
transitive verb
Definition
To drive someone or something away or to reject them in a rude or unfriendly way.
Example
The army was able to repulse the enemy's attack successfully.
Tense Forms
Past: repulsed
Past Participle: repulsed
Conversation
Did you hear what she said to him at the party?
Yeah, it was so rude! I can't believe she would repulse him like that.
I know, right? It really surprised me because she's usually nice.
Root Explanation
Repulse → It is formed from "re-" (meaning back) and "pulsare" (meaning to drive or push). The word "repulse" means to drive back or push away.
Memory Tip
Think of pushing something 'back' ('re-') — that's why repulse means to drive something away.
Visually Confused Words
reimpulse
expulse
reuse
pulse
unrepulsed
revulsed
reperuse
expulser