RETALIATE, respond, reply, react, counter, defend oneself.
→ hit
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hit back [phrasal verb]
: to attack or criticize someone who has attacked or criticized you
If you hit me, I'll hit back.
The team hit back with a touchdown of their own.
— often + at
The Senator hit back at his critics.
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Main Entry: ↑hit
Useful english dictionary. 2012.