Repellent

/rɪˈpɛl.ənt/

Meaning & Definition

noun

A substance used to drive away or deter pests or unwanted animals.

She applied insect repellent before going hiking in the woods.

A thing that repels, particularly in terms of a product designed to keep away unwanted organisms.

The garden center has a variety of animal repellent options for keeping deer away from the flowers.

adjective

Causing disgust or aversion; offensive.

The repellent smell from the garbage made it difficult to stay in the room.

Having the ability to repel; resistant.

This fabric is treated with a repellent finish to keep water out.

From Latin 'repellere', meaning 'to drive back'.

mosquito repellent

A substance used to deter mosquitoes.

repellent behavior

Actions that drive others away or cause discomfort.

a repellent personality

A way of being that is unlikable or off-putting.

repel

To drive away or keep something from approaching.

repulsion

A strong feeling of dislike or disgust.

repulsive

Causing repugnance or aversion.

Something that is strongly disliked.

That new policy is totally repellent to the staff.

An unattractive person or thing.

He was such a repellent character; nobody wanted to hang out with him.