Synonyms for

Repel

Verb / rɪˈpel / Another word for repel — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

to push away or keep at a distance; to cause disgust or distaste

Synonyms & similar words

fightoff disgust snub drive pushback attract grossout forceback repulse rebuff driveback revolt beatback deter disgust dislike revolt offend displease sicken nauseate refuse reject resist combat forbid prohibit avert defend guard protect

Synonyms by register

Formal

disgust offend avert reject

Informal

gross out turn off put off drive away

Literary

spurn shun repulse

Antonyms

attract entice lure invite draw charm beckon

Common collocations

  • repel invaders
  • repel water
  • repel insects
  • repel boarders
  • repel attacks
  • repel the enemy
  • repel odor

Word family

noun repulsion
verb repel
adjective repellent
adverb repulsively

Usage note

Can refer to physically pushing something away or causing disgust/aversion. Ensure the context clearly indicates which meaning is intended.

Example sentences

  1. The smell of the skunk repels predators.
  2. I use bug spray to repel mosquitos.
  3. The thought of eating snails repels me.
  4. The taste of raw onions repels some people.
  5. The idea of cheating on a test repels me.

Quotes

  • I find the idea of seeking power over others repellant. - Ruth Bader Ginsburg
  • I find war repellant. It is a dangerous and costly enterprise. - Walter Annenberg
  • The man who views the world at 50 the same as he did at 20 has wasted 30 years of his life. - Muhammad Ali

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