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 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

In my own life, the loss of my first lover (and the father of my son), had repercussions for all my future romantic liaisons. — Artforum, 4 Nov. 2026

But some are seeing negative repercussions as a result of speaking out. — Mark Rice-Oxley, Christian Science Monitor, 3 Nov. 2026

The repercussions of the slaps continued for hours afterward. — Raechal Shewfelt, Entertainment Weekly, 2 Nov. 2026

For one, the experience of remote work is much more widespread than understood, which could have many repercussions, including mental health issues. — Eric Rosenbaum, CNBC, 2 Nov. 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