refusal

noun

re·​fus·​al ri-ˈfyü-zəl 

1

: the act of refusing or denying

2

: the opportunity or right of refusing or taking before others

Synonyms

• declination
• denial
• disallowance
• nay
• no
• nonacceptance
• rejection
• turndown

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

Each witness stated Cassie did not want the police involved, with security corroborating Cassie's refusal to call law enforcement officials. —Lauryn Overhultz , Tracy Wright , Kirill Clark, FOXNews.com, 24 June 2025

The following guide is the definitive travel companion for pop culture lovers, adventurers, and anyone who’s ever related to Victoria Ratliff’s (Parker Posey) refusal to live an uncomfortable life. —Ashlee Marie Preston, Forbes.com, 23 June 2025

Trump’s disdain for Powell stretches back to his first term as president, all centered on Powell’s refusal to acquiesce to Trump’s demands for lower rates. —Bryan Mena, CNN Money, 20 June 2025

Boston traded Devers on Sunday after a rift between player and club, which predominantly centered around Devers’ refusal to play first base. —Chris Branch, New York Times, 18 June 2025

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing refusal

• (the right of) first refusal

Rhymes for refusal

• occlusal
• perusal
• recusal

Kids Definition

refusal

noun

re·​fus·​al ri-ˈfyü-zəl 

1

: the act of refusing or denying

2

: the opportunity or right of refusing or taking (as a purchase) before others