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

• declination
• denial
• disallowance
• nay
• no
• nonacceptance
• rejection
• turndown

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

What a tiny place to never leave, what a specific corner of the universe to commit to for generations, and what a gloriously stubborn refusal to cede this place to affluent newcomers. —Jennifer Wilson, Travel + Leisure, 25 Apr. 2024

Netanyahu's language referenced the Egyptian pharoah's biblical refusal to free the enslaved Israelites, a story Jewish people all over the world will retell during holiday meals. —Anders Hagstrom, Fox News, 21 Apr. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing refusal

• (the right of) first refusal

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