Definition
The verb “repulse” refers to the act of causing intense dislike, disgust, or aversion in someone; to repel or reject someone or something with strong feelings of disapproval or revulsion.
Pronunciation
US English
UK English
Part of Speech
Verb
Synonyms
Repel, disgust, disgust, deter
Antonyms
Attract, charm, entice
Word Forms
| Part of Speech | Words |
|---|---|
| Noun | repulse, repulses, repulsions, repulsion |
| Verb | repulsing, repulse, repulsed, repulses |
| Adjective | None |
| Adverb | None |
Example Sentences
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The gruesome scene in the horror movie repulsed me to the point where I had to look away.
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The offensive comments made by the politician during the debate repulsed many voters.
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The foul odor emanating from the garbage bin immediately repulsed everyone in the vicinity.
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The violent and graphic content in the video game proved to be too repulsive for some players to handle.
Usage
The word “repulse” has a long history and has been in usage for many centuries. Its origins can be traced back to the Latin word “repellere,” which means “to drive back” or “to repel.” The prefix “re-” in “repulse” is derived from Latin and indicates a reversal or undoing of an action. The suffix “-ulse” comes from the Latin word “pulsare,” which means “to strike” or “to hit.” Therefore, when we put it together, “repulse” implies an action of repelling or striking back.
In terms of usage, “repulse” is primarily used as a verb. It is often applied to describe strong negative emotions or reactions to someone or something. For instance, it can be used to indicate a feeling of intense disgust or aversion towards a person’s behavior or actions. Similarly, it can be used to express the act of rejecting or repelling someone or something due to a strong disapproval or revulsion.
The word “repulse” is commonly used in various contexts. In personal relationships, it might describe an individual’s unwillingness to engage with someone due to their offensive behavior. In military or defensive contexts, it can refer to the act of driving back an enemy assault or attack. Additionally, “repulse” can be used metaphorically to characterize the effect of certain sights, smells, or experiences that cause immediate and strong repulsion.
Overall, “repulse” is a versatile word that conveys strong negative emotions or actions. Its root, prefix, and suffix provide insight into its etymology, highlighting its connection to the act of driving back or repelling. Understanding the history and usage of the word “repulse” allows for clear communication and expression of strong negative reactions or rejections in various contexts.