repercussion

noun

re·​per·​cus·​sion ˌrē-pər-ˈkə-shən 

ˌre-

1

: reflection, reverberation

2

a

: an action or effect given or exerted in return : a reciprocal action or effect

b

: a widespread, indirect, or unforeseen effect of an act, action, or event

—usually used in plural

repercussive

ˌrē-pər-ˈkə-siv 

ˌre-

adjective

Synonyms

• effect
• impact
• influence
• mark
• sway

Examples of repercussion in a Sentence

your decision not to go to college will have repercussions you'll feel for years to come

Recent Examples on the Web

The withholding of federal dollars from the non-profit broadcasters has had immediate repercussions. —David Folkenflik, NPR, 21 Mar. 2025

Related article Putin just called Trump’s bluff on Ukraine, with the Russian art of the ‘no’ deal Indeed, Russia has for years been moving its official funds out of the US, apparently fearful of repercussions over its aggressions in Ukraine and Georgia. —Joseph Ataman, CNN, 21 Mar. 2025

Of course, however, a severe deterioration in the U.S. economy would have global repercussions. —Sarah Min, CNBC, 20 Mar. 2025

Most would only speak anonymously for fear of repercussions. —Hannah Edgar, Chicago Tribune, 20 Mar. 2025

Word History

Etymology

Latin repercussion-, repercussio, from repercutere to drive back, from re- + percutere to beat — more at percussion

First Known Use

1543, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for repercussion

• belorussian
• byelorussian
• concussion
• discussion
• percussion
• kushan
• russian

Kids Definition

repercussion

noun

re·​per·​cus·​sion ˌrē-pər-ˈkəsh-ən 

ˌrep-ər-

1

: a return action or effect

2

: a widespread, indirect, or unexpected effect of something said or done

the new policy had repercussions for everyone