retribution
Retribution (noun) means Punishment given out of a sense of justice or revenge for a wrong that was done. Example: “He swore retribution against those who had betrayed him.”
How to use retribution
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishPunishment or payback delivered as justice or revenge.
Retribution is punishment-focused revenge; "restitution" is about repaying or compensating for a loss — don't mix the two up.
Word forms
retributions plural
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
He swore _____ against those who had betrayed him.
Etymology
From Latin retribuere, "to repay."
Synonyms
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Rhymes for retribution
Frequently asked questions
What does “retribution” mean?
The word “retribution” means punishment given out of a sense of justice or revenge for a wrong that was done. In plain terms, punishment or payback delivered as justice or revenge.
How do you pronounce “retribution”?
“Retribution” is pronounced reht-rih-BYOO-shuhn (/ˌɹɛt.ɹɪˈbju.ʃən/ in IPA).
How do you use “retribution” in a sentence?
Here is “retribution” used in a sentence: “He swore retribution against those who had betrayed him.”
What part of speech is “retribution”?
“Retribution” is a noun.
Where does the word “retribution” come from?
The word “retribution” comes from Latin. From Latin retribuere, "to repay.".
Is “retribution” a common word?
“Retribution” is an uncommon word in modern English.