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

Madrid retain a right of first refusal and a 30 per cent sell-on clause for the 20-year-old, who was part of the under-19 team that won the UEFA Youth League last season. — Chris Weatherspoon, New York Times, 18 Aug. 2026

The Republican president’s lawyers had asked the justices to reconsider their refusal to hear his appeal. — Lindsay Whitehurst, Los Angeles Times, 17 Aug. 2026

Summits between the two countries were held in 2018 and 2019, but ultimately, Pyongyang’s refusal to denuclearize destroyed the negotiations. — Timothy Nerozzi, The Washington Examiner, 17 Aug. 2026

As a result of her refusal, the entire kingdom is cursed to live without love and anyone who steps foot inside it is also cursed. — Todd Spangler, Variety, 15 Aug. 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