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Definitions

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.

The Russian foreign ministry said it had summoned Britain's charge d'affaires over the incident and warned London not to retaliate.

From Barron's • Mar. 30, 2026

Joe Biden used salty language and in 2024 famously issued one word—“Don’t”—to warn Tehran not to retaliate against Israel.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 23, 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

They wanted the Germans to know they were soldiers on an official Allied mission—that way, hopefully, the Germans wouldn’t retaliate against Norwegian civilians in nearby towns.

From "Bomb" by Steve Sheinkin

From Roget's 21st Century Thesaurus, Third Edition Copyright © 2013 by the Philip Lief Group.