repel
6 synonyms and 1 antonym for repel, grouped by meaning and by how common each one is.
Verb — To drive back or fight off an attack or attacker.
Synonyms
Everyday swaps
Common words most readers know — safe in any writing.
Less common
Still standard English, but they carry more weight.
Rare, literary or technical
Precise, but they will stand out — check the sense before using one.
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.
