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

• effect
• impact
• influence
• mark
• sway

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

Two lawsuits have brought these long-simmering tensions to the courts and public consciousness, with financial repercussions in the hundreds of millions that could bring down the internet’s greatest library. —Jon Blistein, Rolling Stone, 29 Sep. 2024

Meredith later insisted to Jackson that the legal repercussions — including cease and desist letters from Catherine - were stopping the other institutions from wanting to work with them on the research. —Stephanie Wenger, Peoplemag, 27 Sep. 2024

Incorporating Outside Contracts Much like Ariel’s deal with Ursula, which had significant repercussions, neglecting to account for existing contracts can create serious complications in estate planning. —Ashley Case, Forbes, 27 Sep. 2024

The change is worrying doctors who say the repercussions could be life-threatening for some. —Chantelle Lee, TIME, 27 Sep. 2024

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

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