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Definition of repellency

repellency

/rɪˈpɛl.ən.si/
re · pel · len · cy
Adverb:repellently
•
Plural:repellencies
•
Adjective:repellent
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repellency Lexical Profile

repellency Game Scores & Validity

• noun

1

The physical or chemical capacity of a surface, fabric, or substance to resist penetration by, ward off, or drive away another substance or pest (such as water, oil, or insects).

Example

"Washing the outdoor jacket with specialized detergent restored its water repellency before the hiking trip."

2

The quality of being offensive, disgusting, or distasteful, causing others to feel strong aversion.

Example

"The sheer moral repellency of the antagonist's actions made the novel difficult to finish."

Synonyms
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Antonyms
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• Nearby Words

repeatedly
repeater
repel
repellency
repellent
repeller
repent

Word Origin & Etymology

Formed in English from the adjective "repellent" plus the abstract noun suffix "-cy", ultimately tracing back to the Latin verb "repellere" ("to drive back"), from "re-" ("back") and "pellere" ("to drive or strike").

Cite this Entry

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