In fact, it can have the opposite effect. Angry people often want to fight. So, if you argue back, you're giving in to what they want. If the other person still wants to argue after your try to find a middle ground, ask if a third party can moderate your discussion, and offer any other reasonable compromise you can. The best thing you can do is walk away and report the behavior to your supervisor.
Women are often the victims of workplace threats, harassment, and violence.
Sometimes they are victims of a violent co-worker or customer. While it's rare, women do attack men, too. You should be familiar with policies relating to different types of emergencies. Your input could help prevent a stressful situation from developing into something much worse. If anyone's behavior has made you uncomfortable, no matter how minor the incident seems to be, report it to your supervisor or another appropriate person in management.