REFU'SE, v.t. s as z. [L. recuso; re and the root of causor, to accuse; causa, cause. The primary sense of causor is to drive, to throw or thrust at, and recuso is to drive back, to repel or repulse, the sense of refuse.] 1. To deny a request, demand, invitation or command; to decline to do or grant what is solicited, claimed or commanded.Thus Edom refused to give Israel passage through his border. Num. 20.2. To decline to accept what is offered; as, to refuse an office; to refuse an offer.If they refuse to take the cup at thy hand - Jer. 25.3. To reject; as, to refuse instruction or reproof. Prov. 10. The stone which the builders refused is become the head of the corner. Ps. 118.[Note - Refuse expenses rejection more strongly than decline.]REFU'SE, v.i. s as z. To decline to accept; not to comply. Too proud to ask, to humble too refuse.
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