re·tor·tion
| \ rə̇ˈtȯrshən, rēˈ-, -tȯ(ə)sh- \
plural -s
Definition of retortion
1
: an act of retorting : a turning, twisting, bending, or throwing back : reflection
3
or retorsion \
"
\
: retaliation
—used chiefly of acts by which an aggrieved state treats the subjects of another state giving provocation in a manner similar to that in which the subjects of the state using retortion are treated by the state giving provocation
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“Retortion.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/retortion. Accessed 2 Mar. 2021.
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