repel

/rɪˈpɛl/
verb
  1. To push away or drive back something or someone, especially an attack or an unwanted force.
    • The army was able to repel the enemy invasion with heavy artillery.
    • The fabric is treated with a special coating to repel water and stains.
    • She sprayed insect repellent on her arms to repel mosquitoes.
  2. To cause strong dislike or disgust; to be unappealing.
    • His rude behavior repelled his coworkers, who avoided him at meetings.
    • The movie's graphic violence repelled many viewers, who walked out of the theater.
    • The smell of rotten eggs repels most people immediately.
  3. To resist or refuse to accept something, such as an idea or offer.
    • She tried to repel the negative thoughts that kept creeping into her mind.
    • The company's strict rules repel talented employees who seek more freedom.
    • The committee voted to repel the proposed changes to the policy.
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