What does retort mean?
Retort is a word for a response that is quick, sharp, and frequently defensive or angry. As a verb, it means to answer a remark or accusation in a forceful, pointed way: “He retorted that the criticism was unfair.” As a noun, it describes the reply itself, such as a witty or cutting retort. The word often conveys a sense of impatience, indignation, or resistance, although a clever retort can also be humorous. Less commonly, retort names a specialized chemistry vessel used to heat substances. Its history connects it with turning or twisting back, which helps explain the idea of a reply that turns the force of someone else's words back toward them.
A sharp, quick, and often angry reply.
"Her sharp retort ended the discussion."
Commonly used in contexts involving argument, criticism, or an accusation.
A vessel used in chemistry for heating or distilling substances.
"The substance was collected as it condensed in the retort."
This is a specialized technical meaning, distinct from the usual conversational use.
To reply sharply or angrily, especially in response to a remark or accusation.
"She retorted that the claim had been deliberately misrepresented."
Often implies a quick, forceful, and somewhat indignant response.
The plural is used for individual sharp replies or for chemistry vessels.
"The politician ignored several retorts from the audience."
A retort can turn a conversation around in one sentence: it is the verbal equivalent of a quick, sharp comeback.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does retort come from?
The word entered English through French retort, from the Latin feminine past participle retorta, meaning “twisted back.” Latin retorta came from retorquere, formed from re- “back” and torquere “to twist.” The underlying root is also the source of words such as torque, tortuous, and distortion. Originally associated with the turning-back process, retort developed its modern verbal meaning of making a sharp reply.
Related word forms
How retort is actually used
In its verbal senses, retort usually suggests a quick, forceful, and often somewhat hostile response. The noun is also a technical term in chemistry, where it refers to a vessel designed for heating and distilling substances.
Easily confused with retort
To retort is to make a sharp verbal reply, whereas to retaliate is to take action intended to harm or punish someone in return.
A retort is typically a brief, sharp, and sometimes angry response, while a rebuttal is a more formal argument or response that counters a claim.