repudiate

UK: /rɪˈpjuː.di.eɪt/ | US: /rɪˈpjuː.di.eɪt/

Definition

  1. vt. to refuse to accept or be associated with

  2. vt. to deny the truth or validity of

  3. vt. (law) to reject a claim or obligation

Structure
re <back>pudi <clean>ate <verb suffix>
Etymology

The word "repudiate" originates from Latin repudiare, meaning "to reject or divorce." It combines:

  • re- (back, away),
  • pud- (from pudere, meaning "to be ashamed" or "clean," implying moral rejection),
  • -ate (verb-forming suffix).
    Historically, it referred to rejecting a spouse or debt, later expanding to broader refusal or denial. The core logic ties "pushing away" (re-) something deemed unworthy or shameful (pudi-).
Examples

  1. The scientist repudiated the flawed theory with new evidence.

  2. He publicly repudiated his former political allies.

  3. The contract allows either party to repudiate under specific conditions.

  4. She refused to repudiate her beliefs despite pressure.

  5. The court ruled the debtor could not repudiate the loan agreement.