Retorting: meaning, definitions and examples

Etymology

• The word 'retort' comes from the Latin 'retorquere', meaning 'to twist back'.
• It first appeared in English around the late 15th century, primarily in legal and argumentative contexts.

Literature

• Writers like Oscar Wilde and Mark Twain are known for their quick and witty retorts, often using them to highlight character traits.
• Retorts often serve as a literary device, adding humor or tension in dialogues in novels and plays.

Psychology

• Humor in retorting can diffuse tense situations, revealing the importance of timing and context in communication.
• Engaging in quick retorts can stimulate cognitive functions, promoting agility in thought processes.

Pop Culture

• In stand-up comedy, delivering a good retort can lead to an unforgettable punchline, often making a performer popular.
• TV shows like 'The Office' and 'Parks and Recreation' showcase characters using retorts to comedic effect.

Communication

• The ability to retort effectively can enhance conversational skills, fostering engaging dialogues.
• Retorting is a form of repartee, a skill valued in debates and discussions, as it showcases quick wit.

At rank #29,664, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.

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• 29664 retorting
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