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 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

The war’s repercussions have spread across the Middle East, including conflict in Lebanon and confrontations involving Iran and the United States, while Israel faces a divisive election and questions over security failures. — Melanie Lidman, Los Angeles Times, 7 Oct. 2026

There is a lot of Dutton history that plays into this premiere, with Kayce seeing the repercussions of Tate being in harm’s way because of the family name and land. — Jackie Strause, HollywoodReporter, 5 Oct. 2026

Any Supreme Court ruling could have repercussions for many of them. — Carrie Johnson, NPR, 5 Oct. 2026

The crimes of a serial killer can have widespread repercussions. — K. Thor Jensen, PC Magazine, 2 Oct. 2026

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
• 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