Repulsive
/rɪˈpʌlsɪv/
Definitions
Arousing intense distaste or disgust.
/rɪˈpʌlsɪv/
Causing strong dislike or aversion; disgusting.
The sight of the decaying food was repulsive.
💡 Simply: Imagine something that makes you want to say 'Ew!' and back away. That's repulsive! Like a rotten egg or a really gross mess.
👶 For kids: When something makes you say 'Yuck!' or want to run away because it's gross.
More Examples
He found the thought of eating insects quite repulsive.
The political leader's behavior was repulsive to many citizens.
Her cruel words and actions were repulsive.
How It's Used
"The smell of the garbage was repulsive."
"Magnetic forces can be repulsive, pushing objects away from each other."
"The villain's actions were truly repulsive, showing a complete lack of empathy."
From Latin *repulsus*, past participle of *repellere* 'to drive back, reject', from *re-* 'back' + *pellere* 'to drive'.
The word 'repulsive' has been used since the 17th century to describe things that inspire strong aversion or disgust, reflecting a growing emphasis on sensory experiences and moral judgments.
Memory tip
Think of a bug you'd want to repel – that's repulsive!