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.
Regardless of the memes, the shutdown’s repercussions could be severe, depending on its length. Naomi Lim, The Washington Examiner, 2 Oct. 2025 In addition, big losses in tourism revenue could have significant repercussions for the US travel industry. Jeanne Bonner, CNN Money, 30 Sep. 2025 There are repercussions and consequences. Nancy Dillon, Rolling Stone, 30 Sep. 2025 And that will have repercussions. Nellie Andreeva, Deadline, 30 Sep. 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 4 Oct. 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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