The Complete Vocabulary Builder Workbook by BETTER WORDS R. B. Skinner

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retort

noun

/rɪˈtɔːt/

IPA:

Dictionary definition of retort

A quick, sharp, and often witty or argumentative reply to a statement or comment made by someone else.
"The retort was cleverly crafted to expose the flaw in the argument."

Detailed meaning of retort

A form of response that is characterized by its swiftness and often carries a tone of rebuttal or defiance. It is typically used in the context of a conversation or debate where one person's comment provokes a pointed and clever retort from another. Retorts can be humorous, sarcastic, or straightforward, depending on the speaker's intent and the tone of the interaction. In essence, a retort is a rapid and effective way of countering or addressing someone else's statement or argument, often leaving a memorable impression in the process.

Example sentences containing retort

1. Her retort to his criticism was both sharp and well-deserved.
2. He couldn't come up with a good retort to her clever remark.
3. In the debate, each candidate had a ready retort for their opponent's claims.
4. His retort left the room in stunned silence.
5. She fired back a retort, defending her position.
6. The comedian's quick retort had the audience in stitches.

History and etymology of retort

The noun 'retort' has its roots in Latin and Old French, with its etymology dating back to the 16th century. It is derived from the Latin word 'retortus,' which means 'bent back' or 'twisted back.' In the context of a conversation or debate, a retort can be seen as a verbal turning or twisting back of a statement or comment made by someone else. The term 'retort' entered the English language through Old French, where 'retorquer' meant 'to throw back words' or 'to reply sharply.' Over time, it evolved to represent a quick, sharp, and often witty or argumentative reply in response to something said by another person, making it a key element of effective communication and debate.

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Further usage examples of retort

1. The professor's retort showcased her expertise on the subject.
2. His retort to the journalist's question was evasive.
3. Her retort to the heckler silenced the disruptive audience member.
4. He had a snappy retort for every sarcastic comment.
5. The student's retort demonstrated critical thinking skills.
6. She delivered a biting retort to the rude customer.
7. The retort to the criticism was swift and decisive.
8. His retort was filled with sarcasm.
9. The political leaders engaged in a war of retorts.
10. Her retort exposed the flaws in his argument.
11. The lawyer's retort was a key moment in the trial.
12. His retort was met with cheers from his supporters.
13. The retort to the accusation was eloquent.
14. She had a retort ready for any insult.
15. Their retorts were both fiery and memorable.
16. The retort to the challenge was met with enthusiasm.
17. He couldn't help but smile at her witty retort.
18. The retort to the provocation was diplomatic.
19. Her retort left no room for further argument.