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

Yet he's struggled to deliver on that promise, and his sweeping tariffs on imports ‒ and refusal to support extending expiring Obamacare subsidies ‒ have given Democrats ammunition to blame hardening costs on the president's policies. —Joey Garrison, USA Today, 11 Dec. 2025

So if there is a refusal to use the word taxidermy and the word disenchantment is chosen instead, it is done out of stubbornness. —Literary Hub, 11 Dec. 2025

Supervision is granted for reasons ranging from humanitarian purposes to refusal of the home country to agree to accept the individual facing deportation. —Center Square, The Washington Examiner, 11 Dec. 2025

Reportedly, Jenner was not pleased with Chalamet’s refusal to comment on their relationship in his November 6 Vogue cover story, per the Daily Mail. —Jason P. Frank, Vulture, 9 Dec. 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