\Ret`ri*bu"tion\, n. [L. retributio: cf. F.
r['e]tribution.]
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.