retaliate

[ri-tal-ee-eyt] / rɪˈtæl iˌeɪt /

VERB

get even with someone

Synonyms

STRONGEST

reciprocate

STRONG

get pay recompense repay requite retrospect return revenge revive settle

WEAK

even the score exact retribution get back at make reprisal pay back return the compliment square accounts strike back take an eye for an eye take revenge turn the tables on turn upon wreak vengeance

Antonyms

STRONG

depart leave lose take

WEAK

forgive pardon sympathize

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Saudi Arabia is pressing the U.S. to end its Strait of Hormuz blockade, fearing Iran could retaliate by disrupting the Bab al-Mandeb shipping route.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 14, 2026

But the officials said Saudi Arabia has warned Iran might retaliate by closing the Bab al-Mandeb—a Red Sea chokepoint crucial for the kingdom’s remaining oil exports.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 14, 2026

I have waited before asking him for the money because I don’t want him to retaliate with a bad review.

From MarketWatch • Mar. 20, 2026

Hurel cautions against writing off Iran's ability to retaliate either directly or through vigilante hacker groups.

From BBC • Mar. 11, 2026

As François’s whip backed him up, Buck found it to be cheaper to mend his ways than to retaliate.

From "The Call of the Wild" by Jack London

Vocabulary lists containing retaliate

The Alchemist

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Grade 9, List 6

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Power Prefix: re-

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