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

The biggest financial blow may have come from Blockbuster Video’s refusal to carry the movie on VHS. —Isaac Butler, New Yorker, 30 May 2026

The agreement gives a limited liability corporation associated with the Broncos the right of first refusal to purchase the former railyard from CDOT and ensures the state cannot sell the land to anybody but the football club. —Parker Gabriel, Denver Post, 29 May 2026

Documents online show that between October and December 2025, one detainee was subjected to forced feeding as a response to their refusal to eat. —Julia Ainsley, NBC news, 29 May 2026

Ohtani’s time in Anaheim For the Angels, Moreno’s refusal to bring the trade to fruition represents yet another what-if from Ohtani’s time in Anaheim. —Ken Rosenthal, The Orlando Sentinel, 29 May 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