respondent
: one who answers or defends in various proceedings: as
a : an answering party in an equitable proceeding
b : a party against whom a petition (as for a writ of habeas corpus) seeking relief is brought
c : an answering party in a proceeding in juvenile court or family court
;specif : a party against whom a divorce proceeding is brought
d : a party prevailing at trial who defends the outcome on appeal
: appellee