retort implies a reaction to an implicit or explicit charge, criticism, or attack which contains a countercharge or counterattack.

RETORT definition: to reply to, usually in a sharp or retaliatory way; reply in kind to. See examples of retort used in a sentence.

To retort means to reply angrily to someone. Was he afraid, he was asked. 'Afraid of what?' he retorted. [VERB with quote] Others retort that strong central power can be a dangerous thing. …

RETORT definition: 1. to answer someone quickly in an angry or funny way: 2. a quick answer that is angry or funny…. Learn more.

retort definition: reply quickly or sharply, sometimes with anger. Check meanings, examples, usage tips, pronunciation, domains, related words.

Dec 21, 2025 · From Middle English retorte, from Latin retortus, from retorquēre (“to be forced to twist back”). retort (plural retorts) A sharp or witty reply, or one which turns an argument …

retort (third-person singular simple present retorts, present participle retorting, simple past and past participle retorted) To say something sharp or witty in answer to a remark or accusation.

The term 'retort' comes from the Latin word 'retortus', meaning 'to turn back', reflecting its nature as a response. It was originally used in the context of chemistry, referring to a vessel that …

re•tort1 /rɪˈtɔrt/ v. to reply in a sharp way: [~ + that clause] retorted that he would have nothing to do with her. [no object] quick to retort. n. [countable] a sharp or clever reply: "You're no better,'' …

A retort is a short and pointed reply, turning back on an assailant the arguments, censure, or derision he had thrown out. A repartee is usually a good-natured return to some witty or …