Dictionary > Repellent

Repellent

Definition
noun, plural: repellents
(1) An agent or a method that wards off, as insect-repellent to repel insects
(2) A remedy that eases swellings
(3) A waterproofing treatment, as in fabrics
adjective
(1) Causing to repel or resist
(2) Tending to ward off
(3) Being resistant (to something)
Supplement
Animal repellents are available as natural or synthetic agents to repel animals. An insect repellent works by ways that drives away insects (e.g. through a scent). Examples of insect repellents include permethrin, neem oil, DEET, and certain essential oils. Other insect repellents may be in the form of a high frequency sound that is not audible to human ears. For natural repellents, an example is animal urine. Fox urine is claimed to repel rabbits, squirrels, etc.
Word origin: From Latin repellens
Compare:

  • attractant

Related term(s):

  • repulsion

    • Mentioned in:

    • Cedar leaf oil

    Last updated on May 29th, 2023

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