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 of repercussion

• effect
• influence
• impact

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

No one will ever convince these moms to back off, and the repercussions of an elopement would be devastating. — Jeanne Phillips, Mercury News, 12 Aug. 2026

The movie broke even thanks to success overseas, but its perception as a failure in its home country had significant repercussions for Gems. — Jim Hemphill, IndieWire, 11 Aug. 2026

As optimism spreads, an investment boom—the next stage—develops, much of it facilitated by credit expansion, and the repercussions are felt in the broader economy. — John Cassidy, New Yorker, 10 Aug. 2026

Greater repercussions Sturgis and Norvell both said these charges are putting their employment at risk. — Diamy Wang august 7, Charlotte Observer, 7 Aug. 2026

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

Rhymes for repercussion

• belorussian
• byelorussian
• concussion
• discussion
• percussion
• russian

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