\Re*trib"ute\, v. t. [L. retributus, p. p.
ofretribuere to retribute; pref re- + tribuere to bestow,
assign, pay. See {Tribute}.]
To pay back; to give in return, as payment, reward, or
punishment; to requite; as, to retribute one for his
kindness; to retribute just punishment to a criminal. [Obs.
or R.] --Locke.