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.

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

Hegseth said the campaign had sharply degraded Iran's ability to retaliate.

From Barron's • Mar. 13, 2026

During testimony last week, witnesses alleged the company had threatened to retaliate against concert venues if they did not use Ticketmaster's services.

From BBC • Mar. 9, 2026

It isn’t clear whether Saudi Arabia would directly retaliate against Tehran.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 2, 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

Looking to grow your vocabulary? Check out this interactive, curated word list from our team of English language specialists at Vocabulary.com – one of over 17,000 lists we've built to help learners worldwide!

Grade 9, List 6

Interested in learning more words like this one? Our team at Vocabulary.com has got you covered! You can review flashcards, quiz yourself, practice spelling, and more – and it's all completely free to use!

Power Prefix: re-

Want to remember this word for good? Start your learning journey today with our library of interactive, themed word lists built by the experts at Vocabulary.com – we'll help you make the most of your study time!