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

The lawyers' move appears to be a last-minute effort to have the case dismissed before a possible ruling that could have massive repercussions for all TPS holders across the country. —Armando Garcia, ABC News, 17 June 2026

Now the Obama Center embraces the role and repercussions of his race, placing his presidency in a narrative of the nation's long journey for equality. —Susan Page, USA Today, 15 June 2026

As Kristic explained, during the speculative post-Covid market, many galleries failed to consider the longer-term repercussions of raising the prices of ultra-contemporary works. —Devorah Lauter, ARTnews.com, 15 June 2026

This interactive guide from the Council on Foreign Relations examines the history of the Sunni-Shia divide and its often deadly repercussions in the modern Middle East. —Mohammed Sergie, semafor.com, 15 June 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