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 pattern illustrated the unintended effects of Google’s policy changes and how obscure changes made to its advertising rules can have outsize repercussions on groups dependent on the world’s biggest search engine. —Nico Grant, New York Times, 21 Jan. 2025

Such a move would have repercussions with a number of international partners, such as the European Space Agency (ESA), Canadian Space Agency (CSA) and Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA) already working on pertinent Gateway hardware. —Andrew Jones, Space.com, 20 Jan. 2025

But the voters’ verdict, in such an event, could have broad repercussions not only in Sacramento — where Democratic Gov. Gavin Newsom is thought to have presidential ambitions — but in Washington, as well. —Mike Lillis, The Hill, 16 Jan. 2025

Natural consequences are a popular (and practical) parenting tool to help your child understand that every choice has repercussions. —Lauryn Higgins, Parents, 16 Jan. 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

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