Retort

A sharp, witty, or incisive reply, often one made in response to a remark or accusation; a quick or clever answer or reaction.

It can also refer to the act of making such a reply. In a more technical sense, it can describe a vessel or container used for chemical reactions, especially those involving the application of heat.

The word emphasizes a reactive verbal response, usually defensive or challenging, reflecting a quick wit and a sense of provocation in the initial statement.

Retort meaning with examples

• After her boss criticized her presentation, Sarah offered a cutting Retort about his own recent failures, stunning the entire team with her unexpectedly bold comeback. This unexpected display of self-defense and cutting wit shocked everyone.
• When questioned about his controversial policies, the politician's Retort was a carefully crafted statement, designed to deflect criticism and shift blame to the opposing party. This clever use of language kept him from directly answering the question.
• The comedian's rapid-fire retorts to the hecklers in the audience kept the crowd roaring with laughter, making him seem quick-witted and humorous.
• Despite his best efforts to remain calm, the man's sarcastic Retort to his wife's nagging revealed his frustration, resulting in an escalation of the argument, highlighting his own temper.
• In the chemistry lab, the chemist carefully monitored the reaction within the Retort, observing the condensation of the volatile substances. The Retort helped in the process of distillation and purification.