respond

UK: rɪˈspɒnd | US: rɪˈspɑːnd

Definition

  1. vi. to reply or answer in words or action

  2. vi. to react to a stimulus or situation

  3. vt. to say or do something as a reaction

Structure
re <back>spond <promise>
Etymology

The word "respond" originates from Latin respondēre, combining re- (indicating a return action) and spondere (to pledge). Historically, it implied a solemn reply or fulfillment of a promise, later generalizing to any verbal or reactive answer. The root spond- also appears in "sponsor" (one who pledges) and "correspond" (to mutually answer).

Examples

  1. She didn’t respond to his message.

  2. The patient failed to respond to the treatment.

  3. How would you respond to this criticism?

  4. The audience responded with applause.

  5. The machine responds instantly to voice commands.