revenge
revenge Lexical Profile
revenge Game Scores & Validity
• noun
The action of inflicting hurt, harm, or humiliation on someone in retaliation for an injury or wrong suffered at their hands.
"In many classic tragedies, the protagonist's obsessive pursuit of revenge ultimately leads to their own downfall."
An opportunity to defeat a sporting opponent who has won an earlier match or competition.
"The defending champions are eager for revenge in tonight's rematch after losing the tournament final last season."
• verb
To inflict hurt or harm in return for an injury or wrong done to oneself or another (often used reflexively or in the passive).
"He vowed to be revenged on the corrupt officials who had wrongfully seized his family's estate."
Word Nuance & Usage
"Revenge" is most commonly used as a noun denoting personal retaliation driven by resentment, whereas "avenge" is a verb denoting the infliction of punishment in pursuit of justice, often on behalf of someone else.
• Rhymes for revenge
• Nearby Words
Word Origin & Etymology
Borrowed in the late 14th century from Old French "revengier" (to take vengeance), from the intensive prefix "re-" and "vengier" (to avenge), which ultimately derives from Latin "vindicare" (to lay claim to, avenge, or punish).