Repellent means something that drives away or disgusts. A mosquito repellent keeps bugs from landing on your skin by giving off smells or chemicals they find unpleasant. A water-repellent jacket causes raindrops to bead up and roll off instead of soaking through the fabric.

The word often describes things that push away or resist other things. Scientists study how certain materials naturally repel water, dirt, or insects. Duck feathers have a natural oil that makes them water-repellent, which is why ducks float so well and stay dry even when swimming.

When describing people or behavior, repellent means disgusting or offensive. Someone with repellent manners might chew with their mouth open and interrupt constantly, making others want to stay away. A repellent smell, like rotting garbage, makes you want to hold your nose and back up quickly.

Notice the connection: whether physical or social, something repellent creates a force that pushes things away. Where something attractive draws you closer, something repellent makes you want to keep your distance.