riposte

Estimated CEFR level: C2 — Proficiency

Estimated from word frequency; not an official CEFR classification.

Definition

noun a quick reply to a question or remark (especially a witty or critical one)
noun (fencing) a counterattack made immediately after successfully parrying the opponents lunge
verb make a return thrust

From French riposte, taken from Italian risposta, a derivative of the verb rispondere (“to respond”).

"Do I look sorry?" was the quick riposte. — That Which Hath Wings: A Novel of the Day, Richard Dehan
“You gallop with a loose rein.” “Pace gives life,” was the riposte. — The Picture of Dorian Gray, Oscar Wilde
That “Oh!” was like the quick drawback of the wrist in fencing ready for riposte. — The Forsyte Saga - Complete, John Galsworthy

rejoinder, retort, return, replication, comeback, counter

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