1. Capable of driving off or repelling; repulsive. 2. An agent that drives away or prevents annoyance or irritation by insect pests. 3. An astringent or other agent that reduces swelling. [L. re-pello, pp. -pulsus, to drive back]
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re·pel·lent also re·pel·lant ri-'pel-ənt adj serving or tending to drive away or ward off often used in combination <a mosquito-repellent spray>
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re·pel·lent (re-pelґənt) [L. repellere to drive back] able to repel or drive off; also an agent so acting, as insect repellent.Medical dictionary. 2011.