Meaning & Definition
noun
A response or answer.
Her reply to the invitation was positive.
A reaction to a statement or question.
His reply was thoughtful and well-articulated.
verb
To respond to a question, request, or comment.
She took a moment to reply to his message.
To say something in response.
He replied that he would join us later.
To give a counterargument or a defense against an accusation.
The lawyer will reply to the charges in court tomorrow.
Etymology
Middle English 'replien', from Old French 'replier', from Latin 'replicare'
Common Phrases and Expressions
reply all:
A term used in email to respond to all recipients.
in reply to:
Used to indicate the response is directed towards a particular person or message.
reply to a comment:
To respond specifically to someone's comment or observation.
Slang Meanings
to hit back with words
He just had to reply, didn't he?
to come back with an answer
She always replies with sass.