Need another word for Repel? Use these synonyms of Repel from our thesaurus to say it differently.
Synonyms & Similar Words
deter
discourage
repulse
reject
resist
defy
oppose
withstand
fight
combat
drive back
push back
fend off
ward off
parry
deflect
turn away
send away
dismiss
refuse
decline
spurn
rebuff
snub
dismiss
reject
renounce
repudiate
abhor
despise
loathe
detest
hate
dislike
disfavor
disapprove
condemn
denounce
ostracize
shun
avoid
evade
escape
elude
Meaning of Repel
According to the Oxford English Dictionary, "repel" means to drive or force back, to resist or withstand, or to cause someone to feel distaste or disgust.
Definitions
- Merriam-Webster defines "repel" as to drive or force back, to cause to move away, or to be unpleasant or unattractive to.
- Cambridge Dictionary defines "repel" as to push something or someone away, to make someone feel dislike or disgust, or to prevent something from happening.
Example Uses
- The new policy aims to repel unwanted visitors from the area.
- The smell of garlic can repel mosquitoes and other insects.
- Her rude behavior managed to repel even her closest friends.
- The government's decision to increase taxes will repel foreign investors.
- The strong odor of the perfume repelled me, so I didn't buy it.