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

And that’s probably why the repercussions have touched even their daughters, Princess Beatrice and Princess Eugenie, who have not been directly involved in the Epstein scandal. —Lizzie Lanuza, StyleCaster, 3 Apr. 2026

However, the disclosures have led to some resignations and other reputational repercussions for some high-ranking Americans. —Ava Berger, NPR, 3 Apr. 2026

Grain stocks rise Farm groups have urged Congress to approve additional aid for crop growers as the repercussions of the Iran war rattle the broader economy. —Tom Polansek, USA Today, 1 Apr. 2026

Wang warned that a ruling in the administration's favor would have vast repercussions. —Stefan Becket, CBS News, 1 Apr. 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