repercussion

noun

re·​per·​cus·​sion ˌrē-pər-ˈkə-shən How to pronounce repercussion (audio)
ˌre-
Synonyms of repercussion
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 How to pronounce repercussion (audio)
ˌre-
adjective

Synonyms of repercussion

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Examples of repercussion in a Sentence

your decision not to go to college will have repercussions you'll feel for years to come
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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.
As more and more people succumb to AI psychosis, horror movies are (as always) the first to dive into the repercussions. — K. Thor Jensen, PC Magazine, 16 Oct. 2026 This was really about supporting and providing that space for the girls who did walk off to do so and not feel any repercussions. — Matt Calkins Outkick, FOXNews.com, 15 Oct. 2026 But the law does not define the term or detail repercussions for violations. — Kristian Hernández, San Antonio Express-News, 15 Oct. 2026 So even a small disruption would have very big repercussions for global LNG trade because of this concentration. — CNBC, 14 Oct. 2026 See All Example Sentences for repercussion

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

Time Traveler
The first known use of repercussion was in 1543

Rhymes for repercussion

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Browse Nearby Words

repercuss
repercussion
repercussive
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Cite this Entry

“Repercussion.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/repercussion. Accessed 27 Oct. 2026.

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Kids Definition

repercussion

noun
re·​per·​cus·​sion ˌrē-pər-ˈkəsh-ən How to pronounce repercussion (audio)
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
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