repetition

noun

rep·​e·​ti·​tion ˌre-pə-ˈti-shən 

1

a

: the act or an instance of repeating or being repeated

b

: a motion or exercise (such as a push-up) that is repeated and usually counted

2

: mention, recital

repetitional

ˌre-pə-ˈti-sh(ə-)nəl 

adjective

Synonyms of repetition

• repeat
• replay

Examples of repetition in a Sentence

Sometimes repetition is necessary to drive a point home.

Children's songs involve lots of repetition.

I quit my job at the factory because I hated the mindless repetition.

Recent Examples on the Web

The stage version’s episodic structure, aside from its tendency toward repetition, largely works well as a vehicle for Bunny’s restless imagination. —Emily McClanathan, Chicago Tribune, 14 Apr. 2026

On his latest album, the Russian producer crafts distinctive dub techno rhythms inspired by the chiming repetitions of Indonesian gamelan music. —Sam Goldner, Pitchfork, 13 Apr. 2026

The tingling sensation from EMS can be uncomfortable, and the system doesn't yet build true muscle memory – the kind of deep, practiced skill that only comes from repetition. —Omar Kardoudi april 13, New Atlas, 13 Apr. 2026

Continue alternating sides for 12 repetitions, two sets. —Matt Parrott, Arkansas Online, 12 Apr. 2026

Word History

Etymology

Middle English repeticion, from Middle French, from Latin repetition-, repetitio, from repetere to repeat

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Phrases Containing repetition

• incremental repetition

Rhymes for repetition

• abolition
• acquisition
• admonition
• ammunition
• apparition
• apposition
• coalition
• competition
• composition
• definition
• deglutition
• demolition

Kids Definition

repetition

noun

rep·​e·​ti·​tion ˌrep-ə-ˈtish-ən 

1

a

: the act or an instance of repeating

b

: a motion or exercise (as a push-up) that is repeated and usually counted

2

: something repeated