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Definition of repel

repel

/rɪˈpɛl/
re · pel
Adverb:repellently
•
Adjective:repellent
•
Past Simple:repelled
•
Past Participle:repelled
•
Present Participle:repelling
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repel Lexical Profile

repel Game Scores & Validity

• verb

1

To drive, force, or keep back or away (an intruder, pest, or opposing force).

Example

"Planting marigolds around the vegetable garden helps to repel certain harmful insects."

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).

Example

"Two magnets with the same polarity will naturally repel each other when brought close together."

3

To cause someone to feel intense distaste, aversion, or disgust.

Example

"The pungent odor coming from the neglected refrigerator was enough to repel everyone in the kitchen."

Synonyms
View all synonyms for repel
Antonyms
View all antonyms for repel

Word Nuance & Usage

Do not confuse 'repel' (to drive back or disgust) with the homophone 'rappel' (to descend a steep rock face using a doubled rope).

• Rhymes for repel

• Nearby Words

repeatable
repeatedly
repeater
repel
repellency
repellent
repeller

Word Origin & Etymology

Borrowed in the late 14th century from Old French repeller, from Latin repellere ('to drive back'), formed from re- ('back') and pellere ('to drive, push, or strike').

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Repel. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/repel
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