refusal

noun

re·​fus·​al ri-ˈfyü-zəl 

1

: the act of refusing or denying

2

: the opportunity or right of refusing or taking before others

Synonyms of refusal

• rejection
• denial

Examples of refusal in a Sentence

My request for more money was met with a flat refusal.

his flat refusal of our reasonable request was rather startling

Recent Examples on the Web

Georgetown also found that refusal to submit DNA could trigger criminal charges and deportation proceedings. — CBS News, 8 Oct. 2026

Plus, Swifties saw Swift and Alwyn’s refusal to make joint public appearances as a red flag. — Lizzie Lanuza, StyleCaster, 7 Oct. 2026

That refusal to judge also informs Coon’s broader approach to acting. — Katherine Brodsky, Variety, 7 Oct. 2026

Voters are bitterly divided over Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s leadership, his role in the security failures surrounding the attack and his refusal to launch an official inquiry into them. — Melanie Lidman, Los Angeles Times, 7 Oct. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing refusal

• (the right of) first refusal

Rhymes for refusal

• occlusal
• perusal
• recusal

Kids Definition

refusal

noun

re·​fus·​al ri-ˈfyü-zəl 

1

: the act of refusing or denying

2

: the opportunity or right of refusing or taking (as a purchase) before others