Revenge

/rɪˈvɛndʒ/

Meaning & Definition

noun

The action of inflicting hurt or harm on someone for an injury or wrong suffered at their hands.

She sought revenge after being betrayed by her closest friend.

The desire to return harm for harm done.

His revenge was fueled by a desire to restore his honor.

A feeling of retribution towards someone who has wronged you.

The thought of revenge consumed him after the unfair treatment.

verb

To inflict injury or harm on someone in return for an injury or wrong done to oneself.

He plotted to revenge his brother's death by confronting the rival gang.

To take vengeance for a wrong one has suffered.

They decided to revenge the insult with a public confrontation.

Middle English: from Old French 'revenchir', from re- 'again' + venger 'to avenge'.

revenge is sweet

The idea that it is satisfying to get back at someone who has wronged you.

get one's revenge

To pursue a retaliatory action against someone.

an eye for an eye

A principle that suggests taking revenge in exact proportion to the injury.

vengeance

The punishment inflicted in return for a wrong.

avenger

A person who takes vengeance.

retaliation

The act of returning an injury or wrong.

Revenge fantasy

He spent hours dreaming up revenge fantasies against his boss.

Get back at someone

She planned to get back at him for spreading rumors.