rebuff

To rebuff someone is to reject them politely. When someone rebuffs you, they usually do it in a way that is not aggressive or hostile.

  • He tried to rebuff her offer, but she was too pushy.

  • She tried to rebuff his offer, but he was too polite.

Definition of rebuff

verb

force or drive back

Synonyms:

drive back, fight off, repel, repulse

noun

an instance of driving away or warding off

Synonyms:

repulse, snub

noun

a deliberate discourteous act (usually as an expression of anger or disapproval)

Synonyms:

slight

verb

reject outright and bluntly

Synonyms:

repel, snub

Nearby Words

rebuff Pronunciation in a video

Example Sentences for rebuff

  • 1

    That is clear that it was a rebuff.

  • 2

    Is it churlish to rebuff praise

  • 3

    But the vote represents a rebuff to the Liberal Administration.

  • 4

    The partner rebuffs the request for greater closeness.

  • 5

    However, the reticent Erich rebuffs her advances.

  • 6

    The move met with a rebuff from the opponent party.

  • 7

    It should therefore be easy for me to rebuff critics of Turkey.

  • 8

    He rebuffs her with a reproach about the untimeliness of the advance.

  • 9

    The Knave attempts to seduce Alice, but she rebuffs him.

  • 10

    Wyoming lawmakers rebuff changes to juvenile life sentences.