 | WordWeight : Weighing the Words |
| WordWeight : Weighing the Words |
Retribution
Pronunciation : Ret`ri*bu"tion
Part of Speech : n.
Etymology : [L. retributio: cf. F. r?tribution.]
Definition : 1. The act of retributing; repayment. In good offices and due retributions, we may not be pinching and niggardly. Bp. Hall.
2. That which is given in repayment or compensation; return suitable to the merits or deserts of, as an action; commonly, condign punishment for evil or wrong. All who have their reward on earth, . . . Naught seeking but the praise of men, here find Fit retribution, empty as their deeds. Milton.
3. Specifically, reward and punishment, as distributed at the general judgment. It is a strong argument for a state of retribution hereafter, that in this world virtuous persons are very often unfortunate, and vicious persons prosperous. Addison.
Syn. -- Repayment; requital; recompense; payment; retaliation.
Source : Webster's Unabridged Dictionary, 1913
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