Rejoinder

Rejoinder is a noun meaning a reply, especially in legal pleadings or formal debate. In law, a rejoinder is the defendant's answer to the plaintiff's replication, or a plaintiff's response to a defendant's plea, forming part of the sequence of pleadings in some common law systems. It serves to address points raised in the preceding pleading and to refine issues for trial. Some jurisdictions have moved away from the formal series of pleadings, using shorter forms or case management to limit steps, making the rejoinder less common, or replacing it with further pleadings or responses.

In rhetoric and everyday use, a rejoinder is a sharp or witty counterargument delivered in response to an argument or remark. It can be brief, timely, and aimed at refuting or undercutting the opponent's position.

Etymology: the term derives from Old French rejoindre, "to join again," via Latinized form; the noun appears in English in the 14th century. It is related to other legal terms such as replication, surrejoinder, and reply, though usage varies by jurisdiction.