verb
repel
rih-PEL/rɪˈpel/
To drive someone or something away.
The matching magnetic poles repel one another and push the carts apart.
Etymology
The pieces mean “drive back.” That physical image also explains resisting an attack: repelling something means forcing it away or preventing it from advancing.
In context
designed to resist and repel invaders and to survive for a long time
More examples
- The soldiers repel an attack on the village.
- Like poles of two magnets repel each other.
- The coating repels water, keeping the fabric dry.
Forms
repel · repels · repelled · repelling
repellent noun — A substance that keeps insects or animals away.