refusal

noun

re·​fus·​al ri-ˈfyü-zəl How to pronounce refusal (audio)
1
: the act of refusing or denying
2
: the opportunity or right of refusing or taking before others

Examples of refusal in a Sentence

My request for more money was met with a flat refusal. his flat refusal of our reasonable request was rather startling
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
That refusal cost him dearly, resulting in his execution by decapitation. Blake D. Morant, Forbes.com, 12 June 2025 Menjivar said in a news release Tuesday that she was removed from a budget subcommittee due to her refusal to approve the Medi-Cal proposals, including an enrollment freeze for undocumented immigrants, and new premiums for the population. Kate Wolffe, Sacbee.com, 12 June 2025 The reasons for the refusals are simple: No Palestinian leader has ever accepted Israel’s right to exist. Sean Durns, The Washington Examiner, 6 June 2025 And the resilience of local residents — their steadfast refusal to let Orlando and its surroundings be redefined by hate — should be celebrated. Orlando Sentinel Editorial Board, The Orlando Sentinel, 4 June 2025 See All Example Sentences for refusal

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of refusal was in the 15th century

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Refusal.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/refusal. Accessed 17 Jun. 2025.

Kids Definition

refusal

noun
re·​fus·​al ri-ˈfyü-zəl How to pronounce refusal (audio)
1
: the act of refusing or denying
2
: the opportunity or right of refusing or taking (as a purchase) before others

More from Merriam-Webster on refusal

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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