Meaning & Definition of word "Retaliation"
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Retaliation
/rɪˌtæliˈeɪʃən/
noun:
- 1. The action of returning a military attack; counterattack.
- Example: The country launched a retaliation against the invading forces.
- 2. The action of harming someone because they have harmed oneself; revenge.
- Example: She feared retaliation from her colleagues after reporting the misconduct.
- 3. The act of returning an injury or wrong.
- Example: His retaliation was swift and unexpected.
Etymology
From Latin 'retaliatio', meaning 'to pay back or retaliate'.
Common Phrases and Expressions
an eye for an eye:
The principle of retaliation that argues for equal punishment for a wrong.
get back at:
To take revenge on someone.
return the favor:
To act in retaliation by doing something similar to what was done to you.
Related Words
reprisal:
An act of retaliation against an enemy.
vengeance:
The desire for revenge or punishment.
revenge:
To inflict harm in return for a wrong done.
Slang Meanings of retaliation
Meaning: Payback
Example Sentence: She planned her payback after what he did.
Meaning: Getting even
Example Sentence: He was all about getting even for those jokes.