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

Instead, this highlights the potential for Democrats to hurt themselves via a combination of having too many candidates – none of whom have been able to distinguish themselves – and the refusal of lower-tier candidates to drop out, even this late in the race. —Douglas Schoen, Oc Register, 26 Mar. 2026

Paramount, which released the 1996 movie, had first right of refusal, but the UK company was able to get a deal over the line and is now eyeing a 2027 launch in London’s West End and ideally a run on Broadway after that. —Andreas Wiseman, Deadline, 26 Mar. 2026

In briefs in the case and in court on Tuesday, the government said the administration’s actions were in response to Anthropic’s refusal to implement certain terms in its contract, and argued free speech wasn’t at issue in the case. —Amanda Gerut, Fortune, 25 Mar. 2026

The DoD, meanwhile, rejected Anthropic’s arguments that its refusal was a free-speech issue, and said its decision was based on national security, not punishment for the company’s views. —Liz Hoffman, semafor.com, 24 Mar. 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