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.
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
The suit said Morales’ alleged actions were reported to then-interim Chancellor Jolene Koester, who “did absolutely nothing,” and that the university allegedly retaliated against the administrators for raising concerns about Morales and the former dean.
From Los Angeles Times ● Jul. 23, 2026
Beijing has retaliated against the U.S. with sharply reduced imports of American agriculture goods.
From Barron's ● Jun. 5, 2026
Iran said it retaliated against a U.S. base.
From MarketWatch ● May 28, 2026
But my mother, being more imaginative, retaliated with an assault upon my sensibilities that crushed me with the moral horror involved in taking a life.
From "Black Boy" by Richard Wright
