SKIP TO CONTENT

retributive

Other forms: retributively

Definitions of retributive
  1. adjective
    of or relating to or having the nature of retribution
    retributive justice demands an eye for an eye”
    punitive, punitory
    inflicting punishment
  2. adjective
    given or inflicted in requital according to merits or deserts
    retributive justice”
    just
    used especially of what is legally or ethically right or proper or fitting
Cite this entry
Style:
MLA
  • MLA
  • APA
  • Chicago

Copy citation
DISCLAIMER: These example sentences appear in various news sources and books to reflect the usage of the word ‘retributive'. Views expressed in the examples do not represent the opinion of Vocabulary.com or its editors. Send us feedback
Word Family