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

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

From BBC • Mar. 11, 2026

Gulf monarchies threatened to retaliate as a Saudi oil refinery burned, Qatar halted LNG production, tankers were attacked off Oman and energy prices soared.

From Barron's • Mar. 2, 2026

I retaliate by stealing one of her blankets, and she giggles.

From "South of Somewhere" by Kalena Miller

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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