repulsive Meaning, Definition & Usage

  1. adjective satellite offensive to the mind
    abhorrent; detestable; repugnant; obscene.
    • an abhorrent deed
    • the obscene massacre at Wounded Knee
    • morally repugnant customs
    • repulsive behavior
    • the most repulsive character in recent novels
  2. adjective possessing the ability to repel
    • a repulsive force
  3. adjective satellite so extremely ugly as to be terrifying
    hideous.
    • a hideous scar
    • a repulsive mask

WordNet

Re*pul"sive adjective
Etymology
Cf. F. répulsif.
Definitions
  1. Serving, or able, to repulse; repellent; as, a repulsive force.
    Repulsive of his might the weapon stood. Pope.
  2. Cold; forbidding; offensive; as, repulsive manners. -- Re*pul"sive*ly, adv. -- Re*pul"sive*ness, n.

Webster 1913