Meaning & Definition of word "Retaliate"
to
Retaliate
/rɪˈtæl.i.eɪt/
verb:
- 1. To return an attack or injury in kind; to take revenge.
- Example: After being insulted, she decided not to retaliate and instead walked away.
- 2. To take revenge for an injury or wrong done to oneself or someone else.
- Example: The country threatened to retaliate if the sanctions were not lifted.
- 3. To respond to an action with a counteraction, particularly in a conflict or dispute.
- Example: The bees will often retaliate if their hive is disturbed.
Etymology
Late Latin 'retaliatus', past participle of 'retaliare', meaning to return an injury.
Common Phrases and Expressions
an eye for an eye:
the principle of retribution or revenge where one punishes another in a similar manner.
tit for tat:
a situation in which one action is met with a similar action, often in retaliation.
Related Words
retaliation:
the act of retaliating or taking revenge.
revenge:
the action of inflicting hurt or harm on someone for an injury or wrong.
reprisal:
an act of retaliation.
Slang Meanings of retaliate
Meaning: Get back at someone.
Example Sentence: She plans to get back at him for spreading rumors.
Meaning: Payback.
Example Sentence: He always believes in payback when someone crosses him.