V2 Vocabulary Building Dictionary
retort
noun, verb
Definition: (n.) a quick, witty response to a question; (v.) 1. to quickly respond to a question with a witty or insulting response; 2. to respond to someone's argument
Synonyms: (n.) response, reply, comback, counterargument, (v.) reply, answer, respond, rebut, counter
Antonyms: question
Tips: Retort is derived from Latin retorquere "turn back," from re- "back" and torquere, "to twist." (see torturous). Think, "to quickly respond back to someone with a witty response that 'twists' their argument or question around." Retort is usually used to describe a witty response that flies in the face of the person who asked the question or instigated the discussion. If you are in a debate, you want to retort (quickly answer) your competitors questions with more than just retorts (witty and biting answers).
Usage Examples:
When she said "Yeah, BABY!" he retorted, "That's Mr. Baby to you." (responded, answered) verb
"I am rubber and you are glue" is not a very good retort to criticism. (response, reply) noun
After she screamed at him, his retort was, "Please come back when you are ready to act like an adult and engage in a civilized discussion." (response, reply) noun
Sure, that's a funny retort you just made, but you still haven't answered my question. (response, reply) noun
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