reply

(noun) a statement (either spoken or written) that is made to reply to a question or request or criticism or accusation. Synonyms: answer, response. Examples: "I waited several days for his answer." "He wrote replies to several of his critics."

(noun) the speech act of continuing a conversational exchange. Synonyms: response. Example: "He growled his reply."

(verb) react verbally. Synonyms: answer, respond. Examples: "She didn't want to answer." "Answer the question." "We answered that we would accept the invitation."