Retourkutsche

Meaning

small revenge

Concepts

retort

Synonyms

Rache

Revanche

Vergeltung

Erwiderung einer Kritik

Quadriga auf dem Brandenburger Tor

Pronounced as (IPA)

[ʁeˈtuːɐ̯ˌkʊt͡ʃə]

Etymology

retour (“return”) + Kutsche (“carriage”). In 18th century originally a hired coach whose fare included the empty return trip. Figurative meaning attested from middle of 19th century. Became a nickname for the quadriga statue on the Brandenburg Gate, which was brought to Paris by Napoleon, then returned to Berlin after his defeat.