Definition

A response to an action, often involving harm or punishment, usually because of a previous wrong or injury.

Example

The country faced retaliation after it imposed sanctions on its neighbor.

Conversation

Did you hear about the fight at school yesterday?

Yeah, I did. It was all over a misunderstanding.

It's crazy how quickly things can escalate to retaliation.

I know, right? Sometimes talking it out is a better option.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Retaliation → It is formed from "re-" (meaning again) and "taliare" (from Latin, meaning to cut or to slice). The word refers to the act of striking back or responding to an injury or wrong done, essentially meaning to cut back again.

Memory Tip

Think of 'again' ('re-') and 'cutting back' ('taliare') to remember that retaliation means to respond to an injury by striking back.

Visually Confused Words