riposte
or ri·post
[ri-pohst]
noun
a quick, sharp return in speech or action; counterstroke: a brilliant riposte to an insult.
Fencing. a quick thrust given after parrying a lunge.
verb (used without object), ri·post·ed, ri·post·ing.
to make a riposte.
to reply or retaliate.
Origin of riposte
1700–10; < French, variant of risposte prompt answer < Italian risposta, noun use of feminine past participle of rispondere to answer < Vulgar Latin *respondere for Latin respondēre; see respond
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Based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2019
Examples from the Web for riposte
Contemporary Examples of riposte
Historical Examples of riposte
My attack had lured him, as I desired that it should, into making a riposte.
Bardelys the MagnificentRafael Sabatini
But he did not add that he had tried to deliver any riposte.
On the StairsHenry B. Fuller
May I venture to suggest to your Excellency that your riposte is more brilliant than safe?
Prisoners of HopeMary Johnston
I instantly replied by a riposte, but failed to catch him napping.
The Great QuestCharles Boardman Hawes
Somehow, though, the riposte fell short of its expected result.
Rich Man, Poor ManMaximilian Foster
riposte
ripost
noun
verb
Word Origin for riposte
C18: from French, from Italian risposta, from rispondere to reply, respond
Collins English Dictionary - Complete & Unabridged 2012 Digital Edition
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Online Etymology Dictionary, © 2010 Douglas Harper