Avenge

/əˈvɛndʒ/ verb

Definition

To punish or harm someone in return for a wrong they did to you or someone you care about.

Etymology

From Old French 'avengier,' which comes from 'a-' (to) and 'venger' (to punish or vindicate), from Latin 'vindicare' (to claim or avenge). The word originally meant to vindicate or justify, but evolved to mean taking retribution. It entered English around the 13th century.

Kelly Says

Avenge is the reason we have the word 'vendetta'—both come from the Latin root for vengeance, and it's literally why the Avengers are called the Avengers: they're avenging the death of someone important!

Related Words

Explore More Words

Get the Word Orb API

Complete word intelligence in one call. Free tier — 50 lookups/day.