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retort

The correct spelling is retort.

How to pronounce retort

/ɹɪˈtɔːt/
noun

IPA: /ɹɪˈtɔːt/

Say it like: Ret-ort

The correct spelling is retort. A sharp or witty reply, or one which turns an argument against its originator; a comeback. For example: "to retort the charge of vanity"

Usage Examples

to retort the charge of vanity

a retorted line

Meanings

noun

  1. 1.A sharp or witty reply, or one which turns an argument against its originator; a comeback.
  2. 2.A flask with a rounded base and a long neck that is bent down and tapered, used to heat a liquid for distillation.
  3. 3.A airtight vessel in which material is subjected to high temperatures in the chemical industry or as part of an industrial manufacturing process, especially during the smelting and forging of metal.
  4. 4.A pressure cooker

verb

  1. 1.To say something sharp or witty in answer to a remark or accusation.
  2. 2.To make a remark which reverses an argument upon its originator; to return, as an argument, accusation, censure, or incivility.
  3. 3.To bend or curve back.
  4. 4.To throw back; to reverberate; to reflect.
  5. 5.To heat in a retort.

Similar words

Words related in meaning — check their spelling too.

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