What is the meaning of the term that describes forcing or keeping something back physically or mentally?

The term that describes forcing or keeping something back, whether physically or mentally, is best captured by the word "repel." This term implies a strong action of driving something away or preventing it from moving closer. In both physical and mental contexts, to repel denotes an active resistance to something that is trying to come closer, whether it be an object or a thought.

In contrast, the other terms have more specific meanings. "Restrict" typically refers to limiting or controlling something rather than the active process of driving it away. "Repulse," while related, often implies a more immediate reaction to an offensive force and can involve a sense of disgust. "Resist" encompasses opposing or withstanding an action or force, but doesn't necessarily imply the same active driving away as "repel." Thus, "repel" serves as the most accurate descriptor for the action of forcing something back.