lashed back
Struck in return
Lashed back means retaliated, especially with words.
When someone criticizes or attacks, the target may lash back with sharp criticism of their own: She lashed back at reporters who questioned her motives.
The image is of a whip striking in return—a quick, stinging response to perceived aggression.
- retaliationPunitive response to injury
- angerIntense hostile emotion
- retortQuick, cutting reply
- rebukeExpress sharp disapproval
- counterattackOffensive response to aggression
indignation · strike · defiance · reprisal · snap · rebuttal · sharp tongue · harsh words · vengeance · frustration · took offense · confrontation · verbal sparring · heated exchange · recoil · protest · denunciation · outrage
lashed backsubmitted
Formally gave for consideration
yielded · acquiesced · capitulated · backed down · surrendered
lashed backmade peace
Resolved a dispute
reconciled · forgave · apologized · de-escalated · calmed down
lash, lashed, lashing, lashes, back, backed, backing, backs, backer