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

No choice, no road, no hope— only the endless repetition of the sordid and the semi-tragic. —Literary Hub, 3 Mar. 2026

All forms of strength training can help, but heavier lifting at lower repetitions is most effective. —Adam Cohen, Oklahoman, 3 Mar. 2026

Paksa restages the medium’s tendency toward repetition but strips it of entertainment value, revealing the medium as an extension of totalitarian control. —Daniel R. Quiles, Artforum, 1 Mar. 2026

Start with two to three sets of eight to 12 repetitions for each movement (do sets on both sides for unilateral movements), moving slowly and with control. —Dana Santas Feb 28, CNN Money, 28 Feb. 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