English Lexicon

Retribution

/ˌrɛtrɪˈbjuːʃən/
nounCEFR C1 (Advanced)Top #1500 frequency
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Comprehensive Definitions & Senses

2 senses
As noun
  1. 1

    Punishment that is considered to be morally right and fully deserved in response to a wrong or crime.

    "The criminal faced swift retribution for his fraudulent actions against the investors."
  2. 2

    Recompense or reward for a service or action, though predominantly used in modern contexts to denote retributive justice.

    "He expected no retribution for his charitable acts, seeking only to help those in need."

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Antonyms & Contrasting Words (1)

Linguistic Origin & Historical Etymology

The term 'retribution' originates from the Latin word 'retributio', which means 'a giving back'. It evolved through Middle English, reflecting the concept of receiving a reward or punishment in accordance with one's actions, particularly in moral or legal contexts.

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