A Dictionary of the Older Scottish Tongue (up to 1700)
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First published 1990 (DOST Vol. VII).
This entry has not been updated since then but may contain minor corrections and revisions.
Retort, -torte, v. [e.m.E. retort to requite (1557), L. retort- p.p. stem of retorquēre to twist back.] tr. a. To turn back (a matter for blame) in a person (cf. e.m.E. retort (a charge) upon someone (1596)). b. To bring as a return to a person. —a. a1500 Henr. Test. Cress. 286 (Thynne) (see Return v. 10).
Hir leuing vnclene … Scho wald retorte in [v.r. returne on] me and my mother —b. 1632 Lithgow Trav. viii 349.
Wars … the issue whereof but retorted to the Duke a redoubling disadvantage
