Ret`ri*bu"tion (?), n.
[L. retributio: cf. F. rétribution.] 1. The act of
retributing; repayment.
In good offices and due retributions, we may not be pinching and niggardly.
Bp. Hall. 2. That which is
given in repayment or compensation; return suitable to the merits or deserts of, as an action; commonly, condign punishment for evil or wrong. All who have
their reward on earth, . . .
Naught seeking but the praise of
men, here find
Fit retribution, empty as their deeds.
Milton. 3. Specifically, reward and punishment, as distributed at the general judgment. It is a strong argument for a state of retribution hereafter, that in this world
virtuous persons are very often unfortunate, and vicious persons prosperous. Addison.
Syn. -- Repayment; requital; recompense; payment; retaliation.
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