WordGarden.ioriposte
C2Pronunciation
UK
- /rɪpˈɒst/
US
- /rɪˈpoʊst/
Meanings
Noun
a quick clever reply to criticism or an insult
a quick thrust made after parrying an opponent's attack in fencing
Verb
to answer with a quick clever reply
to make a quick counterthrust after parrying in fencing
Beyond the definition
Imagine a fast-paced fencing match. A riposte is not just another move with the sword; it is the quick counterattack made right after you block your opponent's attack. But the word did not stay in fencing. Now, it also means a quick, clever reply, especially in an argument or tense conversation. If someone throws out a pointed remark and you answer at once with something sharper, that is a riposte. It feels a bit like verbal fencing, where speed and timing matter.
Originally from French, riposte comes from the world of fencing. In its literal sense, it is a swift return attack made immediately after a successful parry, when a fencer blocks an opponent's blade. It is not just any reaction. It suggests control, timing, and precision.
Over time, the word broadened in meaning. Today, we also use it for a sharp, witty, or clever reply, especially one given in answer to criticism, a challenge, or an insulting comment. It often suggests that the speaker can think quickly and answer in a way that shifts the balance of the exchange.
You might hear: "Her riposte was so quick that it left him speechless." Or, "He made a sarcastic comment, but she met it with a devastating riposte." It is more than a plain retort. A riposte is often unexpected, skillful, and neatly aimed. A simple comeback may only defend you, but a riposte often feels like it turns the attack back on the other person.
So whether you picture a duel on the fencing strip or a lively debate, the idea is the same: a riposte is a fast, skillful response that answers an attack and, often, turns it around.
Examples
- 1
Quick comeback
His riposte was so quick that even his opponent laughed.
- 2
Formal reply
In a written riposte to the article, the company denied any wrongdoing.
- Patterna riposte to + article/claim
a sharp reply to it, often in formal writing
- 3
Sharp answer
Asked whether he had failed, the coach riposted that the season was not over yet.
- Patternriposte that ...
reply sharply by saying ...
See also
Similar
Shades of meaning
Contrast
Used with (collocations)
- witty riposte
- sharp riposte
- deliver a riposte
- riposte to criticism
Word family
Explore
- verbal sparring
- counterattack
Forms and spellings
4 forms open this card.
Main spelling
- ripostenounverb
Forms
- ripostespluralnounverb
- ripostedpast tenseverbnoun
- riposting-ing formverbnoun