Refuse

Definition

The term "refuse" can describe either the act of declining or rejecting something (verb) or discarded waste material (noun).

Parts of Speech

• Verb
• Noun

Pronunciation

American English

• Verb: IPA Pronunciation: /rɪˈfjuːz/
• Verb: Respelling: ri-FYOOZ
• Noun: IPA Pronunciation: /ˈrɛf.juːs/
• Noun: Respelling: REF-yooce

British English

• Verb: IPA Pronunciation: /rɪˈfjuːz/
• Verb: Respelling: ri-FYOOZ
• Noun: IPA Pronunciation: /ˈrɛf.juːs/
• Noun: Respelling: REF-yooce

Etymology

The word "refuse" as a verb comes from the Latin "refusare," meaning "to reject," which is derived from "re-" (back) and "fundere" (to pour). The noun form, meaning discarded material, originates from Middle French "refus," signifying "waste or rejection."

Derivatives

• Refusal (noun)
• Refuser (noun)
• Refused (adjective)
• Unrefused (adjective)
• Refusingly (adverb)

Synonyms

• Verb: Reject, Decline, Deny
• Noun: Garbage, Waste, Trash

Antonyms

• Verb: Accept, Approve, Agree
• Noun: None

Usage

The term "refuse" is used in different contexts. For example, "She refused to accept the offer" (verb) or "The refuse was collected every morning by the sanitation workers" (noun).

Related Terms

• Decline: To refuse politely.
• Reject: To dismiss something as inadequate or unacceptable.
• Waste: Unwanted or discarded material.

Detailed Definitions

Verb

• To decline to accept or do something: Refers to the act of rejecting or saying no.
  • Example: "They refused to participate in the event."
• To show unwillingness: Indicates reluctance or resistance.
  • Example: "He refused to answer the question."

Noun

• Discarded waste material: Refers to garbage or trash.
  • Example: "The street was littered with refuse after the parade."