Retch/retʃ/ Definition 1 of 2Pro Tip 1/3Intensity Indicator Use 'retch' to express a strong physical reaction, suggesting intense disgust or sickness. She retched at the stench from the sewer. Pro Tip 2/3Visual Imagery 'Retch' often paints a vivid picture of discomfort; imagine someone's body convulsing. He clutched his stomach and retched. Pro Tip 3/3Not Actual Vomiting 'Retch' means attempting to vomit, not the act of vomiting itself. I heard him retching in the bathroom but nothing came up.