Repulsers

Part of speech: noun

Definitions

1. A device that pushes back or deflects objects or energies, often used in a sci-fi context
2. A mechanism designed to repel or counteract an incoming force or threat
3. A technology aimed at creating a barrier that prevents the approach of unwanted physical entities or energies

Etymology: "Repulsers" is the plural of "repulser", a noun formed from the verb "repulse" plus the agent suffix "-er", so it names a thing or person that repulses. The base verb comes from Latin "repellere", meaning "to drive back", built from "re-" (back) and "pellere" (to drive). Its literal sense of pushing something away is still visible in the modern noun. In the sense given here, "repulsers" refers to devices that generate a force pushing objects apart, rather than drawing them together. Because the suffix simply attaches to a familiar verb, the term needs no special coinage: anyone who understands "repulse" can read the device's function straight from the word.

Synonyms: rejecters, repellers, dissuaders, pushers away

Antonyms: attractors, acceptors