Definition

1. Adverb:
   • In a manner that causes strong dislike, aversion, or disgust: The word "repellingly" describes an action or quality performed in a way that actively drives others away, either physically or emotionally, due to being extremely unpleasant, offensive, or unattractive.

Usage

• "Repellingly" is used to modify a verb, adjective, or another adverb to intensify the sense of repulsion.
• It often describes physical characteristics, behaviors, or atmospheres that are profoundly off-putting.

Examples

• The substance was repellingly sticky and foul-smelling.
• He argued his point repellingly, with such aggression that everyone left the room.
• The room was decorated repellingly, with clashing colors and disturbing artwork.

Advanced Usage

• "repellingly familiar": Used to describe something that is unfortunately recognizable in a way that causes discomfort or disgust.
  • The politician's excuses were repellingly familiar.
• "repellingly effective": Suggests that something is successful in its function, but in a way that is unpleasant or causes aversion.
  • The security measure was repellingly effective, creating a fortress-like atmosphere.

Variants and Related Words

• Repel (verb): To drive or force back; to cause aversion or disgust.
  • The citronella candle helps repel mosquitoes.
• Repellent (adjective & noun): (Adj.) Causing disgust or aversion. (N.) A substance that deters something.
  • His attitude was utterly repellent.
  • Apply insect repellent before hiking.
• Repellently (adverb): A synonym for "repellingly," meaning in a repellent manner.
  • The food was repellently greasy.

Synonyms

• Disgustingly: In a manner that causes revulsion.
• Revoltingly: In an extremely offensive or disgusting way.
• Off-puttingly: In a manner that causes disinterest or dislike.
• Repulsively: In a way that causes intense distaste.

Antonyms

• Attractively: In a pleasing or appealing manner.
• Appealingly: In a way that attracts interest or liking.
• Invitingly: In a tempting or welcoming way.

Notes

• "Repellingly" is a formal and strong adverb. Its base adjective, "repellent," is more commonly used.
• The example from the reference context, "repellently fat," uses the synonym "repellently." A similar construction with "repellingly" would be "repellingly obese," though such phrasing is now generally considered insensitive and pejorative.

Adverb

1. in a repellent manner
   • repellently fat