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

Trump’s refusal to acknowledge our history or celebrate our diversity represents nothing short of the greatest threat to American civilization since the Civil War. —Melody Moezzi, Chicago Tribune, 16 Apr. 2026

Vice President Vance, Washington's lead negotiator, said a major sticking point that led to the breakdown in Saturday's talks was Iran's refusal to commit to abandoning its nuclear ambitions. —Npr Staff, NPR, 15 Apr. 2026

The peace talks in Iran stalled, according to Vance, because of their refusal to completely give up their nuclear program. —Robert McGreevy, FOXNews.com, 15 Apr. 2026

In fact, the GOP has made things worse, with tax policies favoring corporations over working people, a refusal to expand health access through Medicaid and keeping some of the lowest unemployment benefits of any state. —Steve Bousquet, The Orlando Sentinel, 15 Apr. 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