Definition of: repel

(ri·pel′) v. ·pelled, ·pel·ling v.t.
1. To force or drive back; repulse.
2. To reject; refuse, as a suggestion.
3. To cause to feel distaste or aversion: His manner repels me.
4. To refuse to mix with or adhere to: Mercury repels iron.
5. To push or keep away, especially with invisible force: Like magnetic poles repel each other: opposed to attract.
—v.i.
6. To act so as to drive something back or away.
7. To cause distaste or aversion. [<L repellere <re- back + pellere drive]
—re·pel′ler noun Synonyms: check, oppose, repulse, resist. Repulse is stronger and more conclusive than repel; one may be repelled by the very aspect of the person whose favor he seeks, but is not repulsed except by a direct refusal of his suit. See DRIVE. Antonyms: accept, admit, encourage, entertain, favor, grant, welcome.