Explanation:
The word "retort" comes from the root "-tort-" which means "twist."
A retort is a sharp, witty, or clever response to a remark or question. It can be a quick and often sarcastic comeback.
In the first mentor sentence, the speaker's grumpy retort suggests that their response to the question was not friendly or pleasant. It made the speaker regret asking the question in the first place.
In the second mentor sentence, the speaker fired off a retort that was so clever that the other person couldn't think of anything to add. This implies that the retort was quick-witted and effectively ended the conversation.
Based on the given information, we can predict that "retort" refers to a response that twists or turns the conversation in a clever or sharp manner.
Related words such as "contort" and "torture" also contain the root "-tort-" and suggest actions that involve twisting or causing pain. However, in the context of "retort," the meaning is more focused on the clever or witty aspect of the response rather than physical twisting or pain.
In summary, "retort" refers to a sharp, witty, or clever response to a remark or question, twisting the conversation in an unexpected or clever way.
