retributive Meaning, Definition & Usage

  1. adjective satellite of or relating to or having the nature of retribution
    retributory; retaliatory; relatiative; vindicatory.
    • retributive justice demands an eye for an eye
  2. adjective satellite given or inflicted in requital according to merits or deserts
    retributory; vindicatory.
    • retributive justice

WordNet


Re*trib"u*tive, Re*trib"u*to*ry adjective (Also<
  • Retributive
  • Retributory
)
Etymology
Cf. LL. retributorius worthy of retribution.
Definitions
  1. Of or pertaining to retribution; of the nature of retribution; involving retribution or repayment; as, retributive justice; retributory comforts.

Webster 1913