reply

answer, response, reply, rejoinder, retort mean something spoken, written, or done in return. answer implies the satisfying of a question, demand, call, or need.

• • had answers to all their questions

response may imply a quick or spontaneous reaction to a person or thing that serves as a stimulus.

• • a response to the call for recruits

reply often suggests a thorough response to all issues, points, or questions raised.

• • a point-by-point reply to the accusation

rejoinder can be a response to a reply or to an objection.

• • a salesman with a quick rejoinder to every argument

retort implies a reaction to an implicit or explicit charge, criticism, or attack which contains a countercharge or counterattack.

• • she made a cutting retort to her critics