To answer; to make a return in words or writing to something said or written by another. O man, who art thou that repliest against God? Romans 9:20.

In law, to answer a defendant’s plea. The defendant pleads in bar to the plaintiffs declaration; the plaintiff replies to the defendant's plea in bar.

To return for an answer. He knows not what to reply.

An answer; that which is said or written in answer to what is said or written by another.

A book or pamphlet written in answer to another.