Reply, n.; pl. Replies (-pl.
Etymology: [See Reply, v. i., and cf. Replica.]
That which is said, written, or done in answer to what is said, written, or done by another; an answer; a response.
Syn. -- Answer; rejoinder; response. -- Reply, Rejoinder, Answer. A reply is a distinct response to a formal question or attack in speech or writing. A rejoinder is a second reply (a reply to a reply) in a protracted discussion or controversy. The word answer is used in two senses, namely (1), in the most general sense of a mere response; as, the answer to a question; or (2), in the sense of a decisive and satisfactory confutation of an adversary's argument, as when we speak of a triumphant answer to the speech or accusations of an opponent. Here the noun corresponds to a frequent use of the verb, as when we say. "This will answer (i.e., fully meet) the end in view;" "It answers the purpose."
2 other Webster entries under this spelling
Reply (r-pl), v. i. [imp. & p. p. Replied (-pld); p. pr. & vb. n. Replying.]
1. To make a return in words or writing; to respond; to answer. O man, who art thou that repliest against God Rom. ix. 20.
2. (Law)
To answer a defendant's plea.
3. Figuratively, to do something in return for something done; as, to reply to a signal; to reply to the fire of a battery.
Syn. -- To answer; respond; rejoin.
Reply, v. t.
To return for an answer. Milton. Lords, vouchsafe To give me hearing what I shall reply. Shak.
Shades of meaning
Fernald has no entry of its own for reply; he lists it under answer.
Where he writes about it:
A reply is an unfolding, and ordinarily implies thought and intelligence. — from answer
A rejoinder is strictly an answer to a reply, tho often used in the general sense of answer, but always with the implication of something more or less controversial or opposed, tho lacking the conclusiveness implied in answer; an answer, in the full sense, to a charge, an argument, or an objection is adequate, and finally refutes and disposes of it; a reply or rejoinder may be quite inadequate, so that one may say, "This reply is not an answer;" "I am ready with an answer" means far more than "I am ready with a reply." A response is accordant or harmonious, designed or adapted to carry on the thought of the words that called it forth, as the responses in a liturgical service, or to meet the wish of him who seeks it; as, the appeal for aid met a prompt and hearty response. — from answer