retaliate
verb (used without object)
to return like for like, especially evil for evil.
retaliated
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past participleof retaliate.past participle
A verb form used in perfect and passive verb constructions and that can also function as a modifier.
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past tense formof retaliate.past tense
Used to describe completed actions or previous habitual actions.
retaliateverb (used without object)to return like for like, especially evil for evil.
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.
In June the monitor, Neil Barofsky, alleged that Mr. Fain retaliated against union vice president Rich Boyer for refusing to take improper actions that would financially benefit Mr. Fain’s fiancée.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Oct. 4, 2026
The pre-dawn strike came on the anniversary according to the Jewish calendar of the October 7, 2023 attack, the deadliest-ever day for Israel which retaliated with a devastating offensive in Gaza.
From Barron's ● Oct. 3, 2026
Canada retaliated with tariffs on about $20-billion worth of American goods that took effect Sept. 8.
From Los Angeles Times ● Sep. 25, 2026
Grande’s stanbase quickly retaliated, saying that those commenting on her weight were bringing back body-shaming and tabloid-era hypercriticism.
From Salon ● Aug. 8, 2026
But as Lefty began to feel left out, he retaliated with tradition.
From "Middlesex: A Novel" by Jeffrey Eugenides
