Repulsive – Definition, Meaning, Synonyms & Antonyms

Repulsive meaning refers to a strong aversion, disgust, or repulsion, it is extremely unpleasant or offensive.

History of the Word Repulsive

Historical Usage

Historically, it was closely linked to the idea of causing rejection or aversion. It was used to describe things or actions that induced a strong sense of disgust or repulsion. In literature and rhetoric, it played a role in creating vivid and visceral reactions in audiences.

Modern Usage

In modern language, it remains a potent adjective used to depict anything that evokes intense aversion, disgust, or offense. It can refer to repugnant odors, offensive behaviors, or anything deemed highly unpleasant.

Table of Contents

English (Repulsive As Adjective)

Etymology

Repulsive stems from the Latin “repulsus,” rooted in “repellere” (to drive back).

Pronunciation

Pronounced as: /rɪˈpʌlsɪv/.

Forms of Repulsive

Adjective	repulsive
Comparative Degree	more repulsive
Superlative Degree	most repulsive
Adverb	repulsively
Noun	repulsion

Derived Terms

Repulsively
Repulsion
Repulsiveness

Translations of Repulsive

Spanish: repulsivo
French: répulsif
German: abstoßend
Italian: ripugnante
Portuguese: repulsivo
Russian: отталкивающий (ottalkivayushchiy)
Chinese (Simplified): 令人厌恶的 (lìngrén yànwù de)
Japanese: 不快な (fukai na)
Repulsive meaning in Hindi: घिनौना (ghinona)
Urdu: نفرت انگیز (nafrat angaiz)

Synonyms

Revolting
Disgusting
Abhorrent
Loathsome
Repugnant
Offensive
Odious
Vile
Distasteful
Nauseating
Hateful
Detestable
Offensive
Obnoxious
Horrible
Ghastly
Foul
Sickening
Unsightly
Deplorable

Antonyms

Attractive
Appealing
Alluring
Inviting
Pleasing
Agreeable
Delightful
Charming
Enticing
Desirable
Magnetic
Tempting
Lovely
Enjoyable
Adorable

Examples Sentences

The decaying smell was utterly repulsive.
His bigotry and hatred were deeply repulsive.
The gruesome scene in the movie was repulsively realistic.

FAQs (People May Also Ask)

What does repulsive mean?

Repulsive describes something causing strong aversion, disgust, or repulsion; it’s extremely unpleasant or offensive.

Can repulsive be used as a noun?

Yes, repulsion is the noun form, referring to the act or feeling of strong aversion or disgust.

What’s the adverb form of repulsive?

The adverb form is repulsively, used to describe how something is done in a repulsive manner.

Related Content:

Rate this post