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

Given the strict requirements and the serious repercussions of non-compliance, associations that are unsure of their building’s status should act immediately. —Niurys Robaina, Miami Herald, 4 Dec. 2025

And, the repercussions of not properly managing debt forgiveness can be surprisingly serious. —Angelica Leicht, CBS News, 3 Dec. 2025

January looks like a tough market to notably renew the squad, with Villa still feeling the repercussions of missing out on Champions League football last season. —Jacob Tanswell, New York Times, 2 Dec. 2025

Scientists say this will have repercussions for future navigation and communication networks that may span the inner solar system. —Keith Cooper, Space.com, 2 Dec. 2025

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