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repel

0 synonyms and 1 antonyms for repel, grouped by meaning and by how common each one is.

Verb — To drive back or fight off an attack or attacker.

Antonyms

How to use repel

The word patterns that sound natural to a native speaker.

repel insects repel an attack repel water

Etymology

From Old French repeller, from Latin repellere, "to drive back," from re- plus pellere, "to push or drive." A doublet of repeal.

Full origin of repel →

Frequently asked questions

What does “repel” mean?

The word “repel” means to drive back or fight off an attack or attacker. In plain terms, to push something away — physically, chemically, or emotionally.

How do you pronounce “repel”?

“Repel” is pronounced rih-PEHL (/ɹɪˈpɛl/ in IPA).

How do you use “repel” in a sentence?

Here is “repel” used in a sentence: “The soldiers managed to repel the invasion.”

What is the opposite of “repel”?

The opposite of “repel” — its antonyms — is attract.

What part of speech is “repel”?

“Repel” is a verb.

Where does the word “repel” come from?

The word “repel” comes from Latin. From Old French repeller, from Latin repellere, "to drive back," from re- plus pellere, "to push or drive." A doublet of repeal.

Is “repel” a common word?

“Repel” is an uncommon word in modern English, usually learned at around the C1 level.

How many meanings does “repel” have?

“Repel” has 3 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: to drive back or fight off an attack or attacker.

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Synonyms and antonyms from Wiktionary, CC BY-SA.