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 constantly criticizing the Probation Department’s handling of the halls, all five members of the L.A. County Board of Supervisors supported Viera Rosa’s refusal to close Los Padrinos last year. —James Queally, Los Angeles Times, 1 May 2025

In a recent Times/Siena poll, some of Mr. Trump’s supporters said his refusal to follow norms is part of his appeal. —Natalie Proulx, New York Times, 1 May 2025

Such travelers should expect delays and possible refusal altogether. —Nick Mordowanec, MSNBC Newsweek, 1 May 2025

Social media has been littered with posts praising Angela’s quiet confidence, her read-between-the-lines approach, her general refusal to sweat the small stuff. —Shelby Stewart, Essence, 29 Apr. 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