repel
verb (used with object)
to drive or force back (an assailant, invader, etc.).
had repelled
-
past perfectof repel.past perfect
Used to express a completed action that took place before another specific past action occurred.
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
The Syrian army said that it had repelled a drone attack from neighbouring Iraq that targeted a southern Syrian base which previously housed US forces, state media reported.
From Barron's ● Mar. 28, 2026
However, Matthews' second try from close range, soon after brave defence had repelled Canada, sealed the game for the Red Roses.
From BBC ● Sep. 27, 2025
The General Staff of Ukraine’s armed forces said its troops there had repelled 12 attacks by the Russian army between Friday and Saturday.
From Seattle Times ● Nov. 18, 2023
Russian accounts of the latest fighting made no mention of Avdiivka, but said Russian troops had repelled 15 Ukrainian attacks near Kupiansk, farther north.
From Reuters ● Oct. 25, 2023
The sarcasm that had repelled, the harshness that had startled me once, were only like keen condiments in a choice dish: their presence was pungent, but their absence would be felt as comparatively insipid.
From "Jane Eyre" by Charlotte Brontë
