English Dictionary

Definition of “retort”

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1retort1 (rɪˈtɔːtPronunciation for retort1) 

Definitions

verb

  1. (when tr, takes a clause as object) to utter (something) quickly, sharply, wittily, or angrily, in response
  2. to use (an argument) against its originator; turn the tables by saying (something)

noun

  1. a sharp, angry, or witty reply
  2. an argument used against its originator

Alternative Forms

reˈtorter noun

Word Origin

C16: from Latin retorquēre  to twist back, from re- + torquēre to twist, wrench

2retort2 (rɪˈtɔːtPronunciation for retort2) 

Definitions

noun

  1. a glass vessel with a round bulb and long tapering neck that is bent down, used esp in a laboratory for distillation
  2. a vessel in which large quantities of material may be heated, esp one used for heating ores in the production of metals or heating coal to produce gas

verb

  1. (tr) to heat in a retort

Word Origin

C17: from French retorte , from Medieval Latin retorta , from Latin retorquēre to twist back; see retortC17: from French , from Medieval Latin , from Latin to twist back; see 1

Usage examples

  • Rather than the biting retort Mikel was expecting, she shrugged.
    Jennifer Fallon, TREASON KEEP (2001)
  • Kumble's wickets---all 438 of them---have failed to constitute enough of a retort for Fletcher.
    Outlook India (2004)
  • Maynard refuses to divulge her age and the question provokes this retort.
    Courier, Sunday Mail (2004)
  • It prompted a quick retort from a bunch of Ebbw Vale fans, who burst into a song which eulogised their club.
    Times, Sunday Times (2002)
  • `Of course, she would say that, wouldn't she, "may be the obvious retort.
    Thatcher, Margaret, The Downing Street Years (1993)

Commonness

All English words that begin with 'R'

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