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repel

re·pel

repel

 
 
pronunciation:
rih pel
parts of speech:
transitive verb, intransitive verb
features:
Word Combinations (verb), Word Explorer, Word Parts
part of speech: transitive verb
inflections: repels, repelling, repelled
definition 1: to drive away or force backwards.
We will repel the invaders.
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synonyms:
rebuff, repulse
antonyms:
allure, attract, entice, lure, pull
similar words:
dispel, disperse, expel, foil, oust, resist, rout, scotch, stave off
definition 2: to resist integration or absorption.
His body repelled the disease.
synonyms:
fend off, resist, stave off, ward off, withstand
antonyms:
absorb
similar words:
avert, shed
definition 3: to refuse acceptance of.
He repelled my request.
synonyms:
rebuff, refuse, reject, spurn
similar words:
oppose
definition 4: to cause revulsion or distaste.
I am repelled by the food.
synonyms:
disgust, nauseate, repulse, revolt, sicken
antonyms:
attract, bewitch, captivate, lure, tempt
similar words:
appall, offend
definition 5: to reject the advances of.
She has repelled his affections.
synonyms:
parry, rebuff, reject, repulse, resist
similar words:
foil, frustrate, slight, spurn, withstand
 
part of speech: intransitive verb
definition 1: to act with force to keep something away.
synonyms:
parry, resist
similar words:
fend, withstand
definition 2: to cause aversion, repulsion, or distaste.
antonyms:
allure, attract
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derivations: repellingly (adv.), repellence (repellency) (n.), repeller (n.)
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