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Definition of retaliatory

retaliatory

/rɪˈtæliəˌtɔːri/
re · tal · i · a · to · ry
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retaliatory Lexical Profile

retaliatory Game Scores & Validity

• adjective

1

Characterized by a desire for revenge or intended as a counteraction to an injury, slight, or hostile measure.

Example

"The government imposed retaliatory tariffs after negotiations over agricultural imports broke down."

Synonyms
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Antonyms
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• Rhymes for retaliatory

• Nearby Words

retaker
retaliate
retaliation
retaliatory
retama
retape
retard

Word Origin & Etymology

Formed in the mid-19th century from the verb 'retaliate' plus the suffix '-ory', ultimately deriving from Latin 'retaliatus', past participle of 'retaliare' (to requite or repay in kind), from 're-' (back) and 'talio' (exaction of payment in kind, as in 'lex talionis').

Cite this Entry

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