retaliate
verb/rɪˈtælieɪt/
Frequency rank: #11,793 most common English word
Meaning
to do something harmful to someone because they have harmed you first; to get revenge.

Example sentence
After being insulted in front of everyone, she decided to retaliate by spreading rumors about him.
Synonyms & related words
Practice this word in the quiz
More words in ranks 11,701–11,800
- purgatorya state or place of temporary suffering or waiting, often used figuratively to describe a miserable in-between situation.
- rationalitythe quality of being based on reason and logic rather than emotion.
- rebuketo express sharp disapproval or criticism of someone because of their behavior.
- rebuttala reply that contradicts or disproves an opposing argument.
- relievera pitcher who replaces the starting pitcher during a baseball game; also, something or someone that reduces stress or pain.
- rookA chess piece (also called a castle) that moves in straight lines horizontally or vertically.
- rouseto wake someone up or stir someone into action or emotion.
- samplera small collection of various items offered for tasting or trying out.
- scantbarely sufficient; very little in amount.
- schoolgirla girl who attends school, typically of primary or secondary age.