rächen
Translation
to avenge, to take revenge
Examples
Er rächte seinen ermordeten Freund.
He avenged his murdered friend.
Sie rächte sich für die Beleidigung.
She took revenge for the insult.
Grammar Patterns
to avenge ((sb./sth.)) He avenged his father.
sich rächen ((an sb.)) ((für sth.)) to take revenge on sb. for sth. She took revenge on him for his betrayal.
Similar Words
vergelten (to retaliate)
Etymology
From Old High German 'rehhan' (to punish, avenge), related to the English word 'wreak'.
Memory Tips
Think of 'wreaking' revenge. The sound is somewhat similar. Also, connect it to the noun 'die Rache' (revenge).