Revenge

Definition

Revenge refers to the action of inflicting harm or pain on someone in retaliation for wrongs suffered at their hands. It often carries a sense of vindictiveness and a desire to balance the scales of justice in a personal manner.

Parts of Speech

• Noun
• Verb

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /rɪˈvɛndʒ/
• Respelling: ri-VENJ (with "ri" as in "rid," and "VENJ" as in "avenge")

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /rɪˈvɛndʒ/
• Respelling: ri-VENJ (similar to American English, with "ri" as in "rid," and "VENJ" as in "avenge")

In both dialects, "revenge" is pronounced with stress on the second syllable, "VENJ." The pronunciation is consistent across both American and British English, making it straightforward and easily recognizable.

Etymology

The term "revenge" is traced back to the Middle English word "revenen," derived from the Old French "revenir," which means 'to come back.' The deeper etymological roots stretch to Latin, from the word "revengere," which is a composition of 're-' implying a backward action and 'vindicare' meaning to claim, avenge.

Derivatives

• Revengeful
• Revenger
• Unrevenged
• Revengeless
• Revengingly

Synonyms

• Vengeance
• Retaliation
• Reprisal

Antonyms

• Forgiveness
• Pardon
• Forbearance

Usage

The term "revenge" is frequently employed to denote a retaliatory action against perceived wrongs or injustices. It's a prevalent theme in literature, drama, and films, often creating a complex narrative revolving around the moral implications and the psychological effects of revenge.

Related Terms

• Avenger
• Vendetta
• Retribution

Detailed Definition

Noun

• Retaliatory Action: The action of returning harm or like injury upon someone as a reaction to wrong suffered.‍
• Example: He sought revenge for the murder of his brother.

• Desire for Retaliation: A feeling or state of mind that craves for retaliatory action.‍
• Example: Revenge consumed him, leaving no room for forgiveness.

Verb

• To Exact Retaliation: To inflict harm or damage on someone as a retaliation for wrong done.‍
• Example: He vowed to revenge the insult.