What does 'reprisal' mean?

The term 'reprisal' refers specifically to an act of retaliation, particularly one that involves inflicting harm or injury in response to a previous attack or injury. It is commonly used in contexts such as warfare, where one side may retaliate against another for actions taken against it. The focus of 'reprisal' is on the notion of responding or retaliating, highlighting a cycle of conflict or aggression.

In contrast, the other choices reflect concepts that do not align with the meaning of 'reprisal.' A friendly gesture implies kindness and support, while a reward for good behavior suggests positive reinforcement. A type of celebration, on the other hand, conveys joy and festivity, all of which are unrelated to the idea of retaliation or returning injury. The essence of 'reprisal' is rooted in the notion of retribution, making it distinct from these more benign concepts.