retort Definition
- 1say something in answer to a remark, typically in a sharp, angry, or witty manner
- 2a sharp, angry, or witty reply
Using retort: Examples
Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "retort" can be used in various situations through the following examples!
Example
'I don't know what you're talking about,' she retorted.
Example
He was quick with a retort to her criticism.
Example
Her retort was both clever and cutting.
Example
He made a rude retort to the question.
retort Synonyms and Antonyms
Idioms Using retort
Example
He always has a ready retort for any criticism.
Example
Their conversation quickly turned into a war of words, with each person trying to outdo the other's retorts.
to respond to criticism or insults with equally strong and effective counterarguments
Example
She may be small, but she can give as good as she gets in an argument.
Phrases with retort
Example
She had a sharp retort to his comment.
to say something sharp or angry in response to someone else's comment
Example
She retorted his insult back at him.
Example
She retorted with a sarcastic remark.
Origins of retort
from Latin 're-' meaning 'back' + 'tortus' meaning 'twisted'
Summary: retort in Brief
The verb and noun 'retort' [rɪˈtɔːt] refer to a sharp, angry, or witty reply to a remark. It can be used in various contexts, from responding to criticism to exchanging insults. Examples include 'Her retort was both clever and cutting.' and 'He made a rude retort to the question.' 'Retort' extends into phrases like 'retort to,' and idioms like 'have a ready retort,' denoting quick wit, and 'give as good as one gets,' implying equal counterarguments.
