Reprisal/rɪˈpraɪzl/ Definition 1 of 2Pro Tip 1/3Negative Connotation Reprisal suggests negative feelings and is often associated with harm or revenge. The workers faced reprisals for their participation in the strike. Pro Tip 2/3Response to Harm Use 'reprisal' when a harmful act is done in response to a previous wrongdoing. The siblings' prank war escalated with each reprisal. Pro Tip 3/3Fear as a Deterrent The fear of reprisal can prevent people from acting against injustice or speaking out. Many avoided criticizing the leader due to fear of reprisal.