retribution

Definition

Punishment inflicted in the spirit of moral outrage or personal vengeance.

Etymology

PIE word *tréyes From Latin retribuere (“repay”).

Example Sentences

• "Whereas retribution focuses on the offender's wrong, retaliation focuses on the impulse of the victim (or of those who sympathize with him) to strike back at the offender."
• "1. Revenge is for an injury; retribution is for a wrong. 2. Retribution sets an internal limit to the amount of the punishment according to the seriousness of the wrong; revenge need not. 3. Revenge is personal; the agent of retribution need have no special or personal tie to the victim of the wrong for which he exacts retribution. 4. Revenge involves a particular emotional tone, pleasure in the suffering of another, while retribution need involve no emotional tone."