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retribution definition

ret·ri·bu·tion (re′trə byo̵̅o̅′s̸hən)

noun

punishment for evil done or reward for good done; requital

Etymology: ME retribucioun < OFr retribution < LL(Ec) retributio < L retributus, pp. of retribuere, to repay < re-, back + tribuere, to pay: see tribute

Related Forms:

Webster's New World College Dictionary Copyright © 2005 by Wiley Publishing, Inc., Cleveland, Ohio.
Used by arrangement with John Wiley & Sons, Inc.

retribution Synonyms

retribution

n.

requital, reprisal, retaliation, just deserts; see punishment, revenge 1.


Webster's New World Roget's A-Z Thesaurus Copyright © 1999 by Wiley Publishing, Inc., Cleveland, Ohio.
Used by arrangement with John Wiley & Sons, Inc.

retribution Usage Examples

Converse of object

  • seek: The stunt was met by a group of hackers seeking retribution.

Adjective modifier

  • karmic: This, obviously, is karmic retribution for the self-satisfied way I showed off my new phone to friends at the weekend.

Modifies a noun

  • theory: It turns out we can also have a retribution theory of guilt.

Noun used with modifier

  • government: The broadcast media and portions of the print media continued to practice a great degree of self-censorship in order to avoid provoking government retribution.

Preposition: in

  • shape: Anyone found supporting the Dalai Lama can expect instant and harsh retribution in the shape of a lengthy spell in jail or worse.

Preposition: for

  • sin: Some are benign but others, whom she sees as bringing retribution for sins committed in past incarnations, compel her into danger.

Preposition: upon

  • anyone: You'll find everything you need to exact merciless retribution upon anyone in the pages of this handy, illustrated book.
retribution usage examples (more)

The word usage examples above have been gathered from various sources to reflect current and historical usage. They do not represent the opinions of YourDictionary.com.

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MLA Style

"retribution." Webster's New World College Dictionary. 2009

  • Your Dictionary. 5 July 2009
  • <www.yourdictionary.com/retribution>

APA Style

retribution. (2009). In Webster's New World College Dictionary

  • Retrieved July 5th, 2009, from www.yourdictionary.com/retribution

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