retributive

adjective

re·​trib·​u·​tive ri-ˈtri-byə-tiv How to pronounce retributive (audio)
: of, relating to, or marked by retribution
retributively adverb

Examples of retributive in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Read a list of Trump’s other retributive actions here. Michael S. Schmidt, New York Times, 7 Apr. 2025 The Trump administration’s retributive style complicates those questions. Peter Kiefer, HollywoodReporter, 2 Apr. 2025 There will be no retributive actions taken by any FBI should I be confirmed as FBI director. Melissa Quinn, CBS News, 30 Jan. 2025 To be sure, some retributive violence has clearly taken place, and thousands of Syrians fearful of militant control have fled to Lebanon. Sam Heller, Foreign Affairs, 16 Dec. 2024 See All Example Sentences for retributive

Word History

First Known Use

1619, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of retributive was in 1619

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Cite this Entry

“Retributive.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/retributive. Accessed 24 Apr. 2025.

Kids Definition

retributive

adjective
re·​trib·​u·​tive ri-ˈtrib-yət-iv How to pronounce retributive (audio)
: of, relating to, or marked by retribution
retributive justice
retributively adverb

Legal Definition

retributive

adjective
re·​trib·​u·​tive ri-ˈtri-byə-tiv How to pronounce retributive (audio)
: of, relating to, or marked by retribution
retributive justice
retributively adverb

More from Merriam-Webster on retributive

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