'retribution' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'retributio,' where 're-' meant 'back' and 'tribuere' meant 'to assign or allot.'

'retributio' transformed into the Old French word 'retribution,' and eventually became the modern English word 'retribution' through Middle English.

Initially, it meant 'to assign or allot back,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'punishment as vengeance.'