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.
Even with its lack of confidence in the first half and a stubborn refusal to evolve its dress-up systems, Infinity Nikki captivates the imagination. Josh Broadwell, Rolling Stone, 4 Dec. 2024 When a health scare and landlord trouble throw his life into precarity, Julio’s situation is exacerbated by his refusal to obtain an invasive new form of ID called Proof of Existence. Judy Berman, TIME, 3 Dec. 2024 His refusal to allow independent investigations into corruption scandals involving his wife and other high-ranking officials has further deepened the divide between the president and his adversaries. Mark R. Weaver, Newsweek, 3 Dec. 2024 Since the baffling refusal was discovered, users have been trying to find ways to get the chatbot to say the name or explain who the mystery man is. Eric Lagatta, USA TODAY, 2 Dec. 2024 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

Dictionary Entries Near refusal

Cite this Entry

“Refusal.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/refusal. Accessed 21 Dec. 2024.

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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