What does "retort" mean?
A sharp or witty reply, or one which turns an argument against its originator; a comeback.
Retort
/ɹɪˈtɔɹt/ noun, verb
noun, verb ·Common ·High school level
Meaning at a glance
- Primary sense: A sharp or witty reply, or one which turns an argument against its originator; a comeback.
- Grammar: retort is listed as noun, verb.
- Nearest alternatives: comeback, counter, rejoinder, acknowledge.
- Useful contrasts: agree, comply, concede.
- Usage evidence: He was tempted to retort, but thought better of it.
How to use "retort"
- Start with the primary definition, then check the part of speech before placing the word in a sentence.
- Compare nearby synonyms to make sure "retort" carries the exact meaning, tone, and strength you need.
- Use the example sentence as a context check. If your sentence uses the word differently, confirm that the grammar still fits.
Meaning check
- Does the word fit the sentence's grammar?
- Does it match the intended tone rather than only the dictionary definition?
- Would a simpler synonym be clearer for the reader?
- Is there enough surrounding context to prevent ambiguity?
Source and review context
This entry combines structured lexical data with WordToolSet review checks. Definitions, examples, synonyms, and usage notes may come from different source tables, so the page is designed to show evidence from more than one angle before you rely on "retort" in a final draft.
If a word has several senses, prefer the sense that matches your sentence's grammar and surrounding context. A correct definition can still be the wrong choice when the sentence needs a different register, emphasis, or level of specificity.
Before you rely on this definition
Read the first definition as a starting point, then check the example, synonyms, and part of speech before treating "retort" as the right word for your sentence.
If your draft is formal, technical, persuasive, or sensitive, compare "retort" with a nearby alternative so the final choice matches both meaning and reader expectation.
Compare nearby meanings
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- Use antonyms to check the boundary of the meaning and avoid accidental contrast.
- Use the example sentence to confirm the word behaves naturally in context.
- Keep the original wording when a replacement adds complexity without improving precision.
Definition decision workflow
1. Identify the role
Check whether "retort" is acting as noun, verb in your sentence. A definition is only useful when the grammar matches the way the word is being used.
2. Test the nearest option
Compare it with "comeback" and other nearby choices to see whether the sentence needs a softer, stronger, or more familiar word.
3. Confirm with context
Use the example sentence below as an evidence check, then read your own sentence out loud to catch tone or rhythm problems.
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Final meaning check
Before publishing a sentence with "retort", ask whether the word helps the reader understand the idea faster. A precise word should reduce confusion, not simply make the sentence look more polished.
When the definition, synonym evidence, and example context point in the same direction, the word is usually a safer choice. When they conflict, revise the sentence or choose a clearer alternative.
Definitions
Noun
- 1 A sharp or witty reply, or one which turns an argument against its originator; a comeback.
"He countered her insult with a clever retort."
- 2 A flask with a rounded base and a long neck that is bent down and tapered, used to heat a liquid for distillation.
"A large curved retort was boiling furiously in the bluish flame of a Bunsen burner, and the distilled drops were condensing into a two-litre measure."
- 3 a vessel where substances are distilled or decomposed by heat wordnet
- 4 An airtight vessel in which material is subjected to high temperatures in the chemical industry or as part of an industrial manufacturing process, especially during the smelting and forging of metal.
- 5 a quick reply to a question or remark (especially a witty or critical one) wordnet
Show 2 more definitions
- 6 A pressure cooker.
"The retort is above boiling water. Beneath is a furnace. To the right a man is removing the chips from which the camphor has been extracted."
- 7 A crematory furnace.
Verb
- 1 To say something sharp or witty in answer to a remark or accusation.
"“It is a pity,” he retorted with aggravating meekness, “that they do not use a little common sense. The case resembles that of Columbus' egg, and is every bit as simple.[…]”"
- 2 To heat in a retort. transitive
- 3 answer back wordnet
- 4 To make a remark which reverses an argument upon its originator; to return, as an argument, accusation, censure, or incivility.
"to retort the charge of vanity"
- 5 To bend or curve back.
"a retorted line"
Show 1 more definition
- 6 To throw back; to reverberate; to reflect.
"As when his virtues, shining upon others, / Heat them and they retort that heat again / To the first giver."
Antonyms
Example
"He was tempted to retort, but thought better of it."
Common questions
What is a synonym for "retort"?
Common synonyms include: comeback, counter, rejoinder, acknowledge, acknowledgment, aerosol.
How do you use "retort" in a sentence?
He was tempted to retort, but thought better of it.
How do you pronounce "retort"?
Pronounced /ɹɪˈtɔɹt/.
Etymology
Etymology 1
From Middle English retorte, from Latin retortus, from retorquēre (“to be forced to twist back”).
Etymology 2
From French retorte.