refusal

noun

re·​fus·​al ri-ˈfyü-zəl How to pronounce refusal (audio)
Synonyms of refusalnext
1
: the act of refusing or denying
2
: the opportunity or right of refusing or taking before others

Synonyms

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Examples of refusal in a Sentence

My request for more money was met with a flat refusal. his flat refusal of our reasonable request was rather startling
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
The refusal to leave immigrants, trans kids, pregnant people or other vulnerable groups behind. — Aparna Rae, Forbes, 19 Mar. 2025 Why did the ceasefire break down? Both Israel and the Trump administration have blamed Hamas for the resumption of hostilities, citing the militant group's refusal to meet Israel's demand to release more hostages in return for the resumption of talks. — Chantal Da Silva, NBC News, 19 Mar. 2025 Gazprom's sharp decrease in revenues followed Ukraine's refusal to extend the gas transit deal at the beginning of 2025, thus halting Moscow's ability to deliver gas to European member states via Kyiv's pipeline. — Dan Perry, Newsweek, 18 Mar. 2025 Their refusal to give up, even in the face of obstacles, consistently elevates the caliber of the work they are involved in. — Heide Janssen, Orange County Register, 16 Mar. 2025 See All Example Sentences for refusal

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of refusal was in the 15th century

Phrases Containing refusal

Rhymes for refusal

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refusal
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Cite this Entry

“Refusal.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/refusal. Accessed 24 Mar. 2025.

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Kids Definition

refusal

noun
re·​fus·​al ri-ˈfyü-zəl How to pronounce refusal (audio)
1
: the act of refusing or denying
2
: the opportunity or right of refusing or taking (as a purchase) before others

More from Merriam-Webster on refusal

Nglish: Translation of refusal for Spanish Speakers

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