repugnancy

noun

re·​pug·​nan·​cy ri-ˈpəg-nən(t)-sē How to pronounce repugnancy (audio)
plural repugnancies

Examples of repugnancy in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
These examples are automatically compiled from online sources to illustrate current usage. Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.
The images that traveled around the world of the diminutive clergyman clutching a Bible and facing off against soldiers with machine guns became among the most potent global symbols of apartheid’s moral repugnancy. Ryan Lenora Brown, The Christian Science Monitor, 26 Dec. 2021

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of repugnancy was in the 15th century

Dictionary Entries Near repugnancy

Cite this Entry

“Repugnancy.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/repugnancy. Accessed 8 Nov. 2024.

Legal Definition

repugnancy

noun
re·​pug·​nan·​cy ri-ˈpəg-nən-sē How to pronounce repugnancy (audio)
plural repugnancies
1
: the quality or fact of being inconsistent, irreconcilable, or in disagreement
specifically : a contradiction or inconsistency between sections of a legal instrument (as a contract or statute)
if two acts which cover the same subject matter are repugnant…, the latter operates to the extent of the repugnancy as a repeal of the former In re Miller, 107 F. Supp. 1006 (1952)
2
: an instance of contradiction or inconsistency
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