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.
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.