rebuffs
|re-buff|
B2
/rɪˈbʌfs/
(rebuff)
abrupt rejection
Etymology
Etymology Information
'rebuff' originates from Middle French, specifically the word 'rebuffe', where 're-' meant 'back' and 'buffe' meant 'a blow or puff'.
Historical Evolution
'rebuff' changed from Middle French 'rebuffe' and entered English in the late 16th century as 'rebuff', keeping a similar form and sense.
Meaning Changes
Initially, it meant 'a blow back or a repulse', but over time it evolved into its current meanings of 'a blunt refusal' or 'to reject/repel'.
Meanings by Part of Speech
Noun 1
a blunt refusal, a snub, or a setback.
He met several rebuffs in his career.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Verb 1
to reject or refuse someone or something bluntly or coldly; to snub.
She rebuffs his attempts to apologize.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Last updated: 2025/10/28 07:14