reprisal

American  

[ri-prahy-zuhl] / rɪˈpraɪ zəl /

noun

1. (in warfare) retaliation against an enemy, for injuries received, by the infliction of equal or greater injuries.

   Synonyms:

   redress

2. an act or instance of retaliation.

3. the action or practice of using force, short of war, against another nation, to secure redress of a grievance.

4. the forcible seizure of property or subjects in retaliation.

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reprisal British  

/ rɪˈpraɪzəl /

noun

1. (often plural) retaliatory action against an enemy in wartime, such as the execution of prisoners of war, destruction of property, etc

2. the act or an instance of retaliation in any form

3. (formerly) the forcible seizure of the property or subjects of one nation by another

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reprisal Cultural  

1. An act by which a nation seeks, short of war, to redress a wrong committed against it by another nation. Boycotts and blockades are common forms of reprisal.

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Related Words

See revenge.

Other Word Forms

• nonreprisal noun

Etymology

Origin of reprisal

1400–50; late Middle English reprisail < Old French reprisaille. See reprise, -al ²

Example Sentences

Iran has threatened severe reprisal if it is attacked.

From Barron's

Lately, there is an additional fear for Hersi, whose name has been changed to protect him from reprisals.

From Barron's

AFP is using only her first name for fear of reprisals.

From Barron's

She said the fear of reprisals often means victims are too afraid to come forward and speak up.

From BBC

“I still haven’t seen any proof that Tesla has been able to satisfy the requirements,” said a senior official at another EV manufacturer, who feared reprisal from state officials if they spoke out publicly.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• retaliation
• retribution
• vengeance