Find Antonyms
repel Antonyms
Opposite of repel
Because the opposite of repel shifts with each meaning, the 12 antonyms and opposite words below are separated across 3 exact definitions and ranked by contrast strength.
• verb (Context 1)
To drive, force, or keep back or away (an intruder, pest, or opposing force).
Usage Example
"Planting marigolds around the vegetable garden helps to welcome certain harmful insects."
Strongest
welcome
Strong
invite
attract
lure
• verb (Context 2)
To resist mixing with or to be impervious to a substance, or to exert a physical force that pushes another body away (as of like magnetic poles or treated fabrics).
Usage Example
"Two magnets with the same polarity will naturally attract each other when brought close together."
Strongest
attract
absorb
Strong
soak up
draw
• verb (Context 3)
To cause someone to feel intense distaste, aversion, or disgust.
Usage Example
"The pungent odor coming from the neglected refrigerator was enough to attract everyone in the kitchen."
Strongest
attract
charm
Strong
entice
captivate
delight
allurement
Similar words to repel
Words similar to repel shift depending on context. Common synonyms include:
repulse
revolt
disgust
fend off
ward off
drive back
sicken
turn off
• Nearby Words
Cite this Entry
Wordmom. (2026). Antonyms for Repel. In Wordmom Thesaurus. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/antonyms/repel