retribution

noun

ˌre-trə-ˈbyü-shən How to pronounce retribution (audio)
Definition of retributionnext
as in revenge
the act or an instance of responding to an injury with an injury the neighborhood is being torn apart by an endless cycle of gang violence and retribution

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Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of retribution The people familiar with the discussions spoke on the condition of anonymity to avoid retribution from the administration. — Rick Maese, Washington Post, 30 Sep. 2026 But all of the hospital’s medical providers with the TRUE Center for Gender Diversity refused to prescribe the treatment to minors out of fear of retribution from the federal government, according to the ruling. — Katie Langford, Denver Post, 23 Sep. 2026 Democratic officials have pushed back on those characterizations, described the moves as retribution and said such cuts will harm vulnerable populations. — Mathew Miranda, Sacbee.com, 22 Sep. 2026 Clandestine action begets retribution, which begets chaos — the only status quo Central Intelligence has ever known. — Andy Andersen, Vulture, 20 Sep. 2026 See All Example Sentences for retribution
Recent Examples of Synonyms for retribution
  1. revenge
  2. retaliation
Noun
  • When asked whether Kessler’s return would spark extra motivation for the Jazz, Utah coach Will Hardy dispelled any suggestions of revenge.
    — Los Angeles Times, Los Angeles Times, 25 Oct. 2026
  • Wu stars alongside Chris Pratt, a NAVY seal out for revenge after the murder of his family.
    — Erin Wisti, Footwear News, 24 Oct. 2026
Definition of revenge
Noun
  • To avoid a retaliation claim, keep decisions about Steve’s role, performance, and development consistent and documented, and loop in someone beyond his manager.
    — Emma Burleigh, Fortune, 19 Oct. 2026
  • The other user spoke on condition of anonymity over fears of retaliation.
    — ABC News, ABC News, 17 Oct. 2026
Definition of retaliation

Browse Nearby Words

retrenchments
retribution
retributions
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Cite this Entry

“Retribution.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/retribution. Accessed 27 Oct. 2026.

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More from Merriam-Webster on retribution

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about retribution

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