repel
verb (used with object)
to drive or force back (an assailant, invader, etc.).
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.
They are used for their grease and water repellence, but do not degrade quickly and have been linked to health issues such as higher risks of certain cancers and reproductive problems.
From BBC ● Aug. 18, 2025
All are impressed by the beauty of the house and the island, and almost equally fascinated — with an edge of curiosity and, for some, repellence — by the local fauna.
From New York Times ● Oct. 29, 2014
The downside of ground crickets—aside from blood- and antenna-caked Reeboks—is that their general repellence makes it hard to appreciate the brilliance of the species’ adaptions.
From Slate ● Feb. 13, 2013
Animal of a darkness forever unreachable, your defence in your repellence is nothing but that.
From The Guardian ● Feb. 1, 2013
Then she must have had one operation too many and crossed the line into repellence.
From "Mockingjay" by Suzanne Collins
