Synonyms of retaliation

retaliation

noun

as in revenge

the act or an instance of responding to an injury with an injury

police believe that the murder was in retaliation for an earlier gangland execution

Synonyms & Similar Words

• revenge
• retribution
• reprisal
• vengeance
• punishment
• payback
• compensation
• counterattack
• counteroffensive
• requital
• chastisement
• castigation
• counter
• correction
• wrath
• amends
• penalty
• redress
• indemnity
• reparation(s)
• restitution
• indemnification
• desert(s)
• discipline
• recompense
• recoupment
• nemesis
• remuneration
• quittance

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• mercy
• grace
• leniency
• clemency
• forgiveness
• pardon
• remission
• lenity

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of retaliation

Earlier this year, the judge also dismissed most of Lively's lawsuit against Baldoni while allowing her retaliation claims against Baldoni's public relations team to proceed. — ABC News, 9 July 2026

Two Jackson County judges have reached opposite conclusions over whether the public should be allowed to read allegations contained in retaliation lawsuits against the Independence Police Department. — Ben Wheeler july 9, Kansas City Star, 9 July 2026

One long-time CMS educator spoke with the Observer about the contracts but requested anonymity for fear of retaliation. — Rebecca Noel, Charlotte Observer, 9 July 2026

The attacks came after the United States launched strikes against Iran in retaliation for attacks on vessels in the Strait of Hormuz that American officials described as a ceasefire violation. — Francesca Chambers, USA Today, 8 July 2026

Among those who did have an opinion in each case, most say the initial retaliation was justified — but a majority think its current actions are not. — Steve Peoples, Los Angeles Times, 7 July 2026

The flag has been prominently displayed after other major events such as the killing of top Iranian commander Qasem Soleimani in 2020, serving as a symbol of martyrdom, resistance and, in the regime’s messaging, retaliation. — Xiaoqian Lin, CNN Money, 6 July 2026

Russia’s Defense Ministry said the bombardment was retaliation for Ukraine’s recent long-range strikes, which have caused severe fuel shortages and pressured President Vladimir Putin. — Adela Suliman, NBC news, 6 July 2026

Some residents are reluctant to file complaints with state ombudsmen, fearing retaliation or even involuntary discharge, said Jayla Sanchez-Warren, director of the Denver Regional Council of Governments’ Area Agency on Aging. — Bruce Finley, Denver Post, 5 July 2026