rebuff — to reject someone or something in an abrupt or ungracious manner
Part of speech: VERB
Definition: to reject someone or something in an abrupt or ungracious manner
Pronunciation (IPA): /rɪˈbʌf/
Example Sentences
- The celebrity rebuffed the paparazzi's intrusive questions with a simple 'No comment.'
- When he asked for her number, she rebuffed him so coldly that even the ice cream truck started shivering.
- The peace negotiations ended in rebuff as neither side was willing to compromise.
rebuff
VERB[/rɪˈbʌf/]
to reject someone or something in an abrupt or ungracious manner
She tried to rebuff his offer to carry her books with a firm shake of the head.
She rebuffs the tough deal, staying rough!
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🎤Pronunciation
🌳Etymology
Origin
From French 'rebuffer', combining the prefix 're-' (back) with 'buffer' (to push or strike), which itself derives from Old French 'buffe' meaning a blow or buffet. The word entered English in the 17th century with the sense of pushing back or rejecting.
Breakdown
re- (back) + buff (to push/strike, from Old French buffe) + -er (one who does) = rebuff (to push back, reject)
🎵Rhyme
🔗Collocations
📝Examples
“The celebrity rebuffed the paparazzi's intrusive questions with a simple 'No comment.'”
“When he asked for her number, she rebuffed him so coldly that even the ice cream truck started shivering.”
“The peace negotiations ended in rebuff as neither side was willing to compromise.”
“My cat rebuffs my affection so consistently that I'm starting to think she's a professional relationship counselor.”
📚Related Words
Synonyms
Antonyms
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