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 of refusal

• rejection
• denial

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

Holding this duality helped frame the triennial as both a refusal of extraction and a deep commitment to care. —Wassan Al-Khudhairi, Artforum, 2 Apr. 2026

Woods was arrested on driving under the influence with property damage and refusal to submit to a blood alcohol level (BAL) test charges. —Ryan Gaydos, FOXNews.com, 2 Apr. 2026

Woods was charged with driving under the influence with property damage and refusal to submit to a lawful test following last Friday's accident in Jupiter Island, the Martin County Sheriff's Office said. —Emily Shapiro, ABC News, 2 Apr. 2026

Woods was arrested and charged with a DUI with property damage and refusal to submit to a lawful test by the local sheriff's department. —Kinsey Crowley, USA Today, 2 Apr. 2026

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