refusal

noun

re·​fus·​al ri-ˈfyü-zəl How to pronounce refusal (audio)
1
: the act of refusing or denying
2
: the opportunity or right of refusing or taking before others

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
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.
Despite battlefield advances, Putin has reportedly agreed in principle to begin drafting a peace framework following a two-hour call with U.S. President Donald Trump, who has voiced frustration over Putin’s refusal to engage with Kyiv directly and recent large-scale Russian attacks. Katya Soldak, Forbes.com, 31 May 2025 Her refusal to be anything other than fully, unapologetically herself. Skye P. Marshall, IndieWire, 30 May 2025 That image, and Hawley’s subsequent refusal to certify the results of the Electoral College, would permanently tarnish his reputation, many observers thought at the time. Eyal Press, New Yorker, 30 May 2025 But Harvard’s refusal to comply has given Trump a fight with both legal and political dimensions. David Sivak, The Washington Examiner, 29 May 2025 See All Example Sentences for refusal

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of refusal was in the 15th century

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Refusal.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/refusal. Accessed 4 Jun. 2025.

Kids Definition

refusal

noun
re·​fus·​al ri-ˈfyü-zəl How to pronounce refusal (audio)
1
: the act of refusing or denying
2
: the opportunity or right of refusing or taking (as a purchase) before others

More from Merriam-Webster on refusal

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!