# repelling

/ɹəˈpɛɫɪŋ/ (US) · /ɹɪpˈɛlɪŋ/ (UK) · CEFR B2 · Adjective

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/repelling
Updated: 2026-10-13

## Definition

describing something that pushes you away or makes you feel a strong dislike. It is often used for things that keep water or insects away, or for people who act in a very unpleasant way.

For teachers: causing a feeling of strong distaste or aversion; also describes a physical force that pushes something away. Often functions as a participial adjective derived from the verb 'repel'.

## Examples

- The smell of the chemical was very repelling.
- The fabric is treated with a water-repelling coating to ensure the wearer stays dry during heavy rain.
- While the magnet's repelling force was scientifically fascinating, the candidate's repelling personality proved to be a significant liability during the televised debates.

## Usage notes

- Often used as a participial adjective; can be used literally in physics or figuratively to describe social behavior.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.