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.