The Complete Vocabulary Builder Workbook by BETTER WORDS R. B. Skinner

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repel

verb

/rɪˈpɛl/

IPA:

Dictionary definition of repel

To drive away or force to retreat, often through the use of force or a repelling agent.
"Some plants have a natural ability to repel insects and other pests."

Detailed meaning of repel

The verb "repel" means to drive away, reject, or resist something or someone forcefully. When an individual or object repels, it creates a strong reaction or aversion, often causing the subject to move away or reject the source of discomfort or threat. Repelling can occur in various contexts, from physical forces, like magnets with opposite poles pushing each other away, to interpersonal dynamics, where one person's behavior or attitude may repel another. In a broader sense, "repel" can describe the act of resisting or warding off negative influences, thoughts, or actions. This term underscores the idea of creating a strong and often involuntary reaction that opposes or rejects something that is perceived as undesirable or harmful.

Example sentences containing repel

1. The strong odor will repel insects.
2. Certain scents can repel mosquitoes effectively.
3. The loud noise was meant to repel the intruders.
4. The defensive strategy is designed to repel enemy attacks.
5. The repellent spray is used to repel flies and other pests.
6. The sound of barking dogs can help repel burglars.

History and etymology of repel

The verb 'repel' has its etymological origins in the Latin word 'repellere,' which can be broken down into 're,' meaning 'back,' and 'pellere,' meaning 'to drive' or 'to push.' This etymology conveys the core idea of pushing something back or driving it away. In its historical usage, 'repel' has often been associated with the act of using force or a repelling agent to deter or drive away something undesirable or threatening. This concept has persisted over time, and the term 'repel' continues to be employed to describe actions that involve the rejection or resistance of external forces or influences, whether in a physical or metaphorical sense.

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Further usage examples of repel

1. The bitter taste of the fruit is known to repel birds.
2. The military forces were successful in repelling the enemy invasion.
3. The strong winds can repel birds from nesting in certain areas.
4. The protective armor is designed to repel bullets.
5. The plants release chemicals that repel grazing animals.
6. The bright colors on the butterfly's wings are meant to repel predators.
7. The harsh weather conditions can repel hikers from venturing out.
8. The strong magnetic field can repel certain metals.
9. The repellent lotion is applied to repel ticks and fleas.
10. The security measures are in place to repel potential threats.
11. The electric fence is used to repel animals from entering the property.
12. The smell of vinegar can repel ants from the kitchen.
13. The defensive mechanism of the porcupine is to repel attackers with its quills.
14. The intense heat is enough to repel most people from staying outdoors.