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

French President Emmanuel Macron blasted tech company executives of social media platforms over refusals to limit or restrict speech. —Washington Examiner Staff, The Washington Examiner, 19 Feb. 2026

The Independent Spirits These leads paved their own way with wit, charm, and a refusal to conform. —Lauren Brown West-Rosenthal, Parents, 19 Feb. 2026

Your courage in facing long lines of federal officers, your willingness to shout in our name, and your refusal to hide your grief and anger, all of this will not be forgotten. —Kenety S. Gee, Twin Cities, 18 Feb. 2026

Last week, Moderna said that the initial refusal from the FDA was inconsistent with previous feedback from the agency. —Deidre McPhillips, CNN Money, 18 Feb. 2026

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