repercussion

noun

re·​per·​cus·​sion ˌrē-pər-ˈkə-shən How to pronounce repercussion (audio)
ˌre-
1
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 adjective

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
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
But with the fate of Iran’s nuclear program unknown, and the consequences of America’s intervention still unclear, Trump may be living with the repercussions for the rest of his presidency, and beyond. Massimo Calabresi, Time, 26 June 2025 Investigative journalism that exposes corruption and malfeasance by powerful people and companies comes with a serious risk of legal repercussions, and requires resources—such as time and money—that tend to be in short supply for freelancers. Alex Reisner, The Atlantic, 25 June 2025 This time there are legal repercussions and a federal judge’s blistering rebuke of the district’s vindictive actions towards a young student. Amy Reichert, San Diego Union-Tribune, 25 June 2025 The repercussions extend beyond environmental degradation. Monica Sanders, Forbes.com, 24 June 2025 See All Example Sentences for repercussion

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

Time Traveler
The first known use of repercussion was in 1543

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Repercussion.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/repercussion. Accessed 30 Jun. 2025.

Kids Definition

repercussion

noun
re·​per·​cus·​sion ˌrē-pər-ˈkəsh-ən How to pronounce repercussion (audio)
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

More from Merriam-Webster on repercussion

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