(ri·tôrt′) v.t.
1. To direct (a word or deed) back upon the originator.
2. To reply to, as an accusation or argument, by a similar one.
—v.i.
3. To make answer, especially sharply.
—noun A retaliatory speech; a turning back of an accusation or insult upon the one who makes it; a keen rejoinder or caustic riposte; also, the act of making such reply: to be quick at retort. See synonyms under ANSWER. [<L retortus, pp. of retorquere <re- back + torquere twist]
—re·tort′er noun
RETORTS
a. Retort with receiver.
b. Common retort.

(ri·tôrt′) noun
1. Chem. A vessel with a bent tube, for the heating of substances, or for distillation.
2. Metall. A vessel in which ore may be heated for the removal of its metal content. [<L retortus bent back. See RETORT¹.]