hit back
In real, traceable use. Part of the curated seed collection; community review is coming.
Sense 1
Meaning · English
To retaliate
Where it’s used:
Used
American English
Examples
The Baggies almost hit back instantly when Graham Dorrans broke from midfield and pulled the trigger from 15 yards but Paul Robinson did superbly to tip the Scot's drive around the post.
Usage example from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-07-30)
Sources & notes
Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-07-30 via kaikki.org).
Sense 2
Meaning · English
To return a missed phone call with (someone).
Register: slang
Sources & notes
Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-07-30 via kaikki.org).
Common questions
What does “hit back” mean?
To retaliate
Is “hit back” formal or informal?
No register label has been reviewed yet — treat it as neutral and check the usage notes above.