retort
9 synonyms and 0 antonyms for retort, grouped by meaning and by how common each one is.
Noun — A sharp, witty, or cutting reply, especially one that turns an insult back on the person who made it.
Synonyms
Everyday swaps
Common words most readers know — safe in any writing.
Less common
Still standard English, but they carry more weight.
Rare, literary or technical
Precise, but they will stand out — check the sense before using one.
How to use retort
The word patterns that sound natural to a native speaker.
Etymology
From Latin retorquere, "to twist back" — the flask was named for its bent neck.
Full origin of retort →Frequently asked questions
What does “retort” mean?
The word “retort” means a sharp, witty, or cutting reply, especially one that turns an insult back on the person who made it. In plain terms, a sharp comeback in speech, or a special flask/vessel used for heating things in chemistry and industry.
How do you pronounce “retort”?
“Retort” is pronounced rih-TAWT (/ɹɪˈtɔɹt/ in IPA).
How do you use “retort” in a sentence?
Here is “retort” used in a sentence: “Her retort left him speechless.”
What part of speech is “retort”?
Depending on how it is used, “retort” can be a noun and a verb.
Where does the word “retort” come from?
The word “retort” comes from Latin. From Latin retorquere, "to twist back" — the flask was named for its bent neck.
How many meanings does “retort” have?
“Retort” has 3 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: a sharp, witty, or cutting reply, especially one that turns an insult back on the person who made it.