Repeler

Part of speech: noun

Definitions

1. An agent or substance that drives away or keeps something at a distance, especially insects or unwanted elements ; something that serves to reject or avert approaching persons or objects ; a person or thing that repulses or pushes back unwanted advances
2. A material or device designed to ward off or resist certain creatures or influences ; a tool or compound used to prevent the attraction or adhesion of particular items or organisms ; an entity that causes things or beings to retreat or avoid contact
3. One who or that which forces away or discourages, often by emitting an unpleasant effect ; a mechanism or chemical that deters or prevents intrusion or infestation ; anything acting to obstruct or deflect the approach or presence of others

Etymology: The device takes its name from a simple act: pushing something back. The noun is built from "repel," which comes from Latin "repellere," meaning "to drive back," formed from "re-" (back) and "pellere" (to push or drive). Add the suffix "-er," meaning "one that does," and you get a thing that drives pests away. The spelling here, with one "l," is the Spanish and Portuguese form of the same verb, "repeler." English usually doubles the "l" in the noun, as in "repeller," which keeps the stress and vowel pattern of "repel" intact.

Synonyms: rejecter, repulsor, deflector, resister, avoider

Antonyms: attractor, magnet, acceptor, welcomer