Ret`ri*bu"tion (?), n. [L. retributio: cf. F. r'etribution.]
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.
© Webster 1913.