repulsive
|re-pul-sive|
C1
/rɪˈpʌlsɪv/
causing disgust
Etymology
Etymology Information
'repulsive' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'repulsivus,' where 're-' meant 'back' and 'pellere' meant 'to drive.'
Historical Evolution
'repulsivus' transformed into the French word 'repulsif,' and eventually became the modern English word 'repulsive' through Middle English.
Meaning Changes
Initially, it meant 'to drive back or repel,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'arousing disgust or distaste.'
Meanings by Part of Speech
Adjective 1
arousing intense distaste or disgust.
The smell was so repulsive that I had to leave the room.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Last updated: 2025/01/11 11:41