retaliate

[ri-tal-ee-eyt]

verb (used without object)

retaliated, retaliating 

1. to return like for like, especially evil for evil.

   to retaliate for an injury.

   Synonyms: reciprocate, repay, counter

verb (used with object)

retaliated, retaliating 

1. to requite or make return for (a wrong or injury) with the like.

retaliate

/ rɪˈtælɪˌeɪt /

verb

1. (intr) to take retributory action, esp by returning some injury or wrong in kind

2. (intr) to cast (accustations) back upon a person

3. rare,  (tr) to avenge (an injury, wrong, etc)

Other Word Forms

• retaliative adjective
• retaliatory adjective
• retaliator noun
• unretaliated adjective
• unretaliating adjective
• unretaliative adjective
• retaliation noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of retaliate¹

First recorded in 1605–15; from Late Latin retāliātus (past participle of retāliāre ), equivalent to re- re- + tāli(s) “such, of such a nature” + -ātus -ate ¹

Word History and Origins

Origin of retaliate¹

C17: from Late Latin retāliāre , from Latin _re- + tālis of such kind

Example Sentences

So far, rather than retaliating, India has put forth a carefully orchestrated geopolitical response to signal its displeasure to the US.

From BBC

The attack was the biggest blow to the Houthis by Israel since it started retaliating a year ago against missile attacks by Houthis.

From BBC

We can also suppose that his violent language that usually results in death threats does not trouble their consciences, as it retaliates against people his voters regard as evil or even demonic.

From Salon

After Crowley complained publicly that the budget cuts had “weakened the department’s readiness, Bass retaliated,” the lawyers allege.

From Los Angeles Times

Cameron, whose teeth were broken, retaliated by opening fire, injuring one of the attackers.

From BBC

Related Words

• reciprocate