repercussion

noun

re·​per·​cus·​sion ˌrē-pər-ˈkə-shən 

ˌre-

1

: reflection, reverberation

2

a

: an action or effect given or exerted in return : a reciprocal action or effect

b

: a widespread, indirect, or unforeseen effect of an act, action, or event

—usually used in plural

repercussive

ˌrē-pər-ˈkə-siv 

ˌre-

adjective

Synonyms of repercussion

• effect
• influence
• impact

Examples of repercussion in a Sentence

your decision not to go to college will have repercussions you'll feel for years to come

Recent Examples on the Web

After being threatened with legal repercussions, the outlet deleted the story in its entirety. —Bailey Richards, PEOPLE, 23 May 2026

The repercussions of the Iran war have been felt globally, but the United Arab Emirates has suffered a more direct impact than most, targeted by missile and drone strikes. —Amy Gunia, CNN Money, 22 May 2026

One serious issue for Russian actors still living in Russia was the possible repercussions of participating in a Zvyagintsev project. —Anne Thompson, IndieWire, 22 May 2026

After all the noise of legal actions and repercussions in the build-up, tomorrow retains the potential to be a day that could change everything. —Philip Buckingham, New York Times, 22 May 2026

Word History

Etymology

Latin repercussion-, repercussio, from repercutere to drive back, from re- + percutere to beat — more at percussion

First Known Use

1543, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for repercussion

• belorussian
• byelorussian
• concussion
• discussion
• percussion
• russian

Kids Definition

repercussion

noun

re·​per·​cus·​sion ˌrē-pər-ˈkəsh-ən 

ˌrep-ər-

1

: a return action or effect

2

: a widespread, indirect, or unexpected effect of something said or done

the new policy had repercussions for everyone