retributive

American

[ri-trib-yuh-tiv] / rɪˈtrɪb yə tɪv /

Also retributory

adjective

characterized by or involving retribution.

retributive justice.

Other Word Forms

retributively adverb
unretributive adjective
unretributory adjective

Etymology

Origin of retributive

1670–80; obsolete retribute to make retribution (< Latin retribūtus; retribution ) + -ive

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.

The untrammeled and retributive presidency he now exercises?

From The Wall Street Journal

It was one of several cases Winston turned down in quick succession, they added, that would have pitted the firm against an openly retributive president.

From Salon

A majority of the country is not on board with their wild grievance-laden, retributive agenda.

From Salon

“The best hope was their sticking together and fighting the illegal, retributive orders.”

From Los Angeles Times

"There will be no politicization at the FBI. There will be no retributive actions taken by any FBI."

From Salon

Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023