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Avenge - Meaning, Definition & English Examples

To avenge means to punish or harm someone in return for a wrong they have done, often to seek justice or retaliation for oneself or another. It implies retribution for a past offense.

avenge

/əˈvɛndʒ/ /əˈvɛndʒ/

Definition:

To inflict harm in return for a wrong or injury suffered.

Synonyms:

retaliate, revenge, repay, vindicate

Part of Speech:

verb

Antonyms:

forgive, pardon

Common Collocations:

avenge a death, avenge a wrong, avenge an insult

Derivatives:

avenger, avenging

Usage Tips:

Use "avenge" when seeking justice for someone else; "revenge" is more personal.

Common Phrases:

avenge someone's death, sworn to avenge, avenge the fallen

Etymology:

From Old French "avengier," meaning to take vengeance, derived from Latin "vindicare."

Examples:

  • 1. He vowed to avenge his brother's murder.
  • 2. The hero sought to avenge the village's destruction.
  • 3. She wanted to avenge the insult with action.
  • 4. They plotted to avenge their defeat in battle.

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