repel
verb (used with object)
to drive or force back (an assailant, invader, etc.).
were repelling
-
past progressiveof repel.past progressive
Used to describe an ongoing action or continuous state that was happening at a specific time in the past.
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.
He said the "tragic incident" had occurred when Russian air defence systems were repelling Ukrainian drones.
From BBC ● Sep. 2, 2026
On Saturday, Putin said the "tragic incident" had occurred when Russian air defence systems were repelling Ukrainian drones, and expressed his "deep and sincere condolences to the families of the victims".
From BBC ● Dec. 29, 2024
Kyiv's military administration officials said that air defence systems were repelling the attacks.
From Reuters ● May 30, 2023
Near Kreminna, north of Bakhmut, Ukrainian soldiers said on Monday they were repelling intensified attacks.
From Reuters ● Mar. 13, 2023
It had not only internal enemies, but also foreign enemies to contend with; and while its armies were repelling Europe, parties were overthrowing each other in the assemblies.
From History of the French Revolution from 1789 to 1814 by M. (François-Auguste-Marie-Alexis) Mignet
