retaliation

[ri-tal-ee-ey-shuhn]

noun

1. the act of retaliating; return of like for like; reprisal.

Other Word Forms

• counterretaliation noun
• nonretaliation noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of retaliation¹

First recorded in 1575–85; retaliate + -ion

Example Sentences

Then the gate to the ranch broke, said co-plaintiff Veronica P., who asked that her last name not be made public for fear of retaliation.

From Los Angeles Times

If the past is any precedent, India hasn't shied away from retaliation.

From BBC

Both are union representatives and requested anonymity for fear of retaliation.

From Los Angeles Times

The government said the changes were necessary to protect national security, but unions viewed it as retaliation for their participation in lawsuits opposing the president’s policies.

From Los Angeles Times

“This is another act of revenge following a long list of political retaliation in the form of firings, the revoking of security clearances and more,” Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass told CNN.

From Salon

Related Words

• punishment 
• reprisal 
• retribution 
• revenge