1. the act of getting revenge or striking back against someone who has harmed you

Examples

• The bombing was seen as retaliation for the earlier attack.
• She feared retaliation from her former employer after filing the complaint.
• The country threatened military retaliation if its borders were crossed.
• His harsh criticism was clearly retaliation for being passed over for promotion.
• The gang violence escalated as each side sought retaliation.
• Economic sanctions were imposed in retaliation for the trade violations.