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

Despite battlefield advances, Putin has reportedly agreed in principle to begin drafting a peace framework following a two-hour call with U.S. President Donald Trump, who has voiced frustration over Putin’s refusal to engage with Kyiv directly and recent large-scale Russian attacks. —Katya Soldak, Forbes.com, 31 May 2025

Her refusal to be anything other than fully, unapologetically herself. —Skye P. Marshall, IndieWire, 30 May 2025

That image, and Hawley’s subsequent refusal to certify the results of the Electoral College, would permanently tarnish his reputation, many observers thought at the time. —Eyal Press, New Yorker, 30 May 2025

But Harvard’s refusal to comply has given Trump a fight with both legal and political dimensions. —David Sivak, The Washington Examiner, 29 May 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