repercussion

noun

re·​per·​cus·​sion ˌrē-pər-ˈkə-shən 

ˌre-

1

: reflection, reverberation

2

a

: an action or effect given or exerted in return : a reciprocal action or effect

b

: a widespread, indirect, or unforeseen effect of an act, action, or event

—usually used in plural

repercussive

ˌrē-pər-ˈkə-siv 

ˌre-

adjective

Synonyms

• effect
• impact
• influence
• mark
• sway

Examples of repercussion in a Sentence

your decision not to go to college will have repercussions you'll feel for years to come

Recent Examples on the Web

Medically and Scientifically President Trump's withdrawal from the WHO will have major repercussions throughout the world. —Dan Perry, Newsweek, 31 Jan. 2025

This underscores the need for organizations to empower their employees with the tools and confidence to enforce policies without fear of repercussions. —Lauren Carpenter, USA TODAY, 30 Jan. 2025

Even with the potential uncertainties and negative repercussions that litigation can present for communities, boards of directors can find themselves with little other recourse when facing unruly and disruptive owners who refuse to adhere to their community’s rules and policies. —Christyne D. Santisteban, Miami Herald, 29 Jan. 2025

While city officials may be safe from legal repercussions, separate lawsuits against insurance companies and those who may have been responsible for igniting the wildfires remain on the table, Rahmani said. —Michael Ruiz, Fox News, 27 Jan. 2025

Word History

Etymology

Latin repercussion-, repercussio, from repercutere to drive back, from re- + percutere to beat — more at percussion

First Known Use

1543, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Kids Definition

repercussion

noun

re·​per·​cus·​sion ˌrē-pər-ˈkəsh-ən 

ˌrep-ər-

1

: a return action or effect

2

: a widespread, indirect, or unexpected effect of something said or done

the new policy had repercussions for everyone