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Definition of retaliate

retaliate

/rɪˈtæl.i.eɪt/
re · tal · i · ate
Adjective:retaliatory
•
Past Simple:retaliated
•
Past Participle:retaliated
•
Present Participle:retaliating
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retaliate Lexical Profile

retaliate Game Scores & Validity

• verb

1

To respond to an injury, insult, or hostile action by returning a similar act; to take revenge or counterattack.

Example

"The trading bloc threatened to retaliate with higher tariffs if the new import restrictions were enacted."

2

To return an insult, wrong, or injury in kind upon someone (used transitively).

Example

"Rather than retaliate the slight, the diplomat chose to address the underlying disagreement calmly."

Synonyms
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Antonyms
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• Rhymes for retaliate

• Nearby Words

retainer
retake
retaker
retaliate
retaliation
retaliatory
retama

Word Origin & Etymology

Borrowed in the early 17th century from the past participle of Latin retaliare ('to requite in kind'), formed from re- ('back') and talio ('exaction of payment in kind'), related to talis ('of such a kind').

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Retaliate. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/retaliate
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