What is "retribute"

Retribute \Re*trib"ute\, v. t. [L. retributus, p. p. ofretribuere to retribute; pref re- + tribuere to bestow, assign, pay. See Tribute.] To pay back; to give in return, as payment, reward, or punishment; to requite; as, to retribute one for his kindness; to retribute just punishment to a criminal. [Obs. or R.]
--Locke.

"give in return," 1570s, from Latin retributus, past participle of retribuere "give back, restore, repay" (see retribution). Related: Retributed; retributing.

vb. To pay back; to give in return, as payment, reward, or punishment; to requite.