Definition

Causing a strong feeling of dislike or disgust.

Example

The repulsive smell made everyone leave the room.

Comparatives & Superlatives

Conversation

Did you see that movie last night?

Yeah, it was pretty repulsive at times, wasn't it?

Definitely! Some scenes were hard to watch.

I agree, but it made the story more intense.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Repulsive → It is formed from "re-" (meaning back or again) and "pulsare" (meaning to drive or push). The word "repulsive" means to push back or drive away, often used to describe something that causes a strong feeling of disgust.

Memory Tip

Think of something that makes you feel like you want to 'push back' ('re-') because it is 'driving' you away ('pulsare'). That's why repulsive describes something that causes strong aversion.

Visually Confused Words