verb (used without object)
- to reply or answer in words: to respond briefly to a question.
- to make a return by some action as if in answer: to respond generously to a charity drive.
- to react favorably.
- Physiology. to exhibit some action or effect as if in answer; react: Nerves respond to a stimulus.
- to correspond (usually followed by to).
- Bridge. to make a response.
verb (used with object)
- to say in answer; reply.
noun
- Architecture. a half pier, pilaster, or the like projecting from a wall as a support for a lintel or an arch, the other side of which is supported on a free-standing pier or column.
- Ecclesiastical.
- a short anthem chanted at intervals during the reading of a lection.
- responsory.
- response.
verb
- to state or utter (something) in reply
- (intr) to act in reply; reactto respond by issuing an invitation
- (intr foll by to) to react favourablythis patient will respond to treatment
- an archaic word for correspond
noun
- architect a pilaster or an engaged column that supports an arch or a lintel
- Christianity a choral anthem chanted in response to a lesson read at a church service
v.c.1300, respound, from Old French respondere “respond, correspond,” from Latin respondere “respond, answer to, promise in return,” from re- “back” (see re-) + spondere “to pledge” (see spondee). Modern spelling and pronunciation is from c.1600. Related: Responded; responding.