repellent
UK: rɪˈpelənt | US: rɪˈpelənt
adj. causing disgust or aversion
adj. capable of driving away or resisting something (e.g., insects, water)
n. a substance used to repel pests or unwanted elements
The word "repellent" originates from Latin repellere (re- "back" + pellere "to push"), reflecting the idea of "pushing away." The suffix -ent transforms the verb into an adjective or noun, emphasizing the capacity to repel. Over time, it evolved to describe both physical resistance (e.g., water-repellent fabric) and abstract aversion (e.g., morally repellent behavior).
The strong odor of the chemical was highly repellent to mosquitoes.
She found his arrogant attitude utterly repellent.
This jacket is treated with a water-repellent coating.
The repellent spray kept the insects away during the hike.
His cruel remarks were repellent to everyone in the room.