English Reference
verb · noun

repeal

v. · n.
US /ɹiˈpiɫ/ UK /ɹɪpˈiːl/ re·peal UK spelling repealed, repeals

  1. 01 C1 Advanced Formal Law

    v.to officially end a law so that it is no longer in effect.

    v.to revoke or annul a law, ordinance, or public act by legislative authority.

    Simple

    The government decided to repeal the unpopular tax law after months of protests.

    In context

    The legislature moved to repeal the outdated statute, arguing that its provisions were no longer compatible with modern constitutional standards.

    Usage

    The verb is transitive and requires a direct object, typically a law, act, or regulation.

  2. 02 C1 Advanced Formal Law

    n.the official act of ending a law.

    n.the act or instance of revoking or annulling a law or congressional act.

    Simple

    Campaigners celebrated the repeal of the ban on Sunday trading.

    In context

    The sudden repeal of the trade agreement caused significant volatility in the international markets as investors scrambled to adjust their portfolios.

    Usage

    Often used in the construction 'the repeal of [something]'.

The Carney government should repeal the anti-development laws and regulations built up during the Trudeau years.

Toronto Sun· 22 Aug 2026

The move to repeal the ‘roadless rule’ would pave the way for road construction and logging in nearly 45 million acres of untouched back country.

The New York Times· 18 Aug 2026
This entry
Level C1 · Advanced
Frequency Frequent
Updated