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| v. re·tort·ed, re·tort·ing, re·torts v. tr. 1. a. To reply, especially to answer in a quick, caustic, or witty manner. See Synonyms at answer. b. To present a counterargument to (an argument or accusation). 2. Archaic To return in kind; pay back. v. intr. 1. To make a reply, especially a quick, caustic, or witty one. 2. To present a counterargument. 3. Archaic To return like for like; retaliate. n. 1. A quick incisive reply, especially one that turns the first speaker's words to that speaker's own disadvantage. 2. The act or an instance of retorting. [Latin retorquēre, retort-, to bend back, retort : re-, re- + torquēre, to bend, twist; see terkw- in the Appendix of Indo-European roots.] re·torter n. |
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