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 of refusal

• rejection
• denial

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

All of this is to say that while the White House publicly maintains its displeasure with the Supreme Court for signaling its unlikelihood to let the tariffs stand, there’s a chance that the court’s refusal to play ball could prove a blessing in disguise. —Tiana Lowe Doescher, The Washington Examiner, 7 Nov. 2025

That tone—of pain, of surprise, of a stubborn refusal to be reduced or diminished—is everywhere in it. —Questlove, The Atlantic, 7 Nov. 2025

Despite this refusal, the Miami Herald was able to document one instance in which Suarez’s worlds overlapped — profitably for both the employer and Suarez. —Miami Herald, 7 Nov. 2025

In addition, millions of low-income Americans are likely to see massive cuts and extensive delays in their Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program benefits because of the White House’s refusal to fully fund the program during the shutdown. —Nathaniel Weixel, The Hill, 6 Nov. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing refusal

• (the right of) first refusal

Rhymes for refusal

• occlusal
• perusal
• recusal

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