Refuse — Meaning, Definition & Synonyms

verb noun adjective /ri-ˈfyüz/ (verb) /ˈre-ˌfyüs/ (noun) re·fuse

Meaning & Definition of Refuse

Refuse (verb)

  1. to express oneself as unwilling to accept
  2. to show or express unwillingness to do or comply with
  3. to not allow someone to have or do (something), deny

Refuse (noun)

  1. the worthless or useless part of something, leavings
  2. trash, garbage

Refuse (adjective)

  1. thrown aside or left as worthless

Word Forms of Refuse

Inflections: refused, refusing

Derived words: refuser (noun)

Origin & Etymology of Refuse

Middle English, from Anglo-French refuser, from Vulgar Latin *refusare, perhaps blend of Latin refutare to refute and recusare to demur recuse

First known use: 14th centuryt

Vocabulary Lists & Topics for Refuse

Words & Phrases Containing Refuse

too good to refuse

Frequently Asked Questions about Refuse

What does "Refuse" mean?

"Refuse" means to express oneself as unwilling to accept. As an a verb, a noun and an adjective, it is defined as: to express oneself as unwilling to accept. It has 6 distinct senses.

Is "Refuse" a noun, verb, or adjective?

"Refuse" can be used as a verb, a noun and an adjective, depending on the context.

Is "Refuse" useful for IELTS, TOEFL, and other English exams?

As an A2-level word, "Refuse" is typical of Cambridge A2 Key (KET), PTE Academic 30–42, TOEIC Listening & Reading 225+.

How do you pronounce "Refuse"?

"Refuse" is pronounced /ri-ˈfyüz/ as a verb and /ˈre-ˌfyüs/ as a noun and divided into syllables as re·fuse.

What is the origin of the word "Refuse"?

"Refuse" comes from Middle English, from Anglo-French refuser, from Vulgar Latin *refusare, perhaps blend of Latin refutare to refute and recusare to demur recuse. First known use: 14th centuryt.

What does "Refuse" mean as a verb?

As a verb, "Refuse" means: to express oneself as unwilling to accept; to show or express unwillingness to do or comply with; to not allow someone to have or do (something), deny.

What does "Refuse" mean as a noun?

As a noun, "Refuse" means: the worthless or useless part of something, leavings; trash, garbage.

What does "Refuse" mean as an adjective?

As an adjective, "Refuse" means: thrown aside or left as worthless.