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

As that unpaid debt ages, though, the repercussions for carrying it can shift from phone calls and letters to lawsuits filed against you as a means of recovery. —Angelica Leicht, CBS News, 27 Mar. 2026

Rising tensions in the Middle East are causing significant global economic repercussions, disrupting essential trade routes and supply chains, and driving up the costs of fuel, fertilizer and food. —Ivana Kottasová, CNN Money, 27 Mar. 2026

Like any global conflict, its repercussions ripple outward far from the immediate war zone. —Jake Angelo, Fortune, 26 Mar. 2026

The conclusions could carry significant political repercussions because some Republican lawmakers are threatening a vote to expel Cherfilus-McCormick from the House. —ABC News, 26 Mar. 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
• kushan
• 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