Meaning & Definition of word "Return"

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    Return

    /rɪˈtɜrn/

    noun:

    • 1. the act of going back to a place after having been away.
      • Example: The return of the migrating birds is a sure sign of spring.
    • 2. something that is given back or sent back.
      • Example: The return of the lost wallet was a huge relief.
    • 3. the profit or income generated from an investment.
      • Example: Investors were pleased with the return on their investment this year.

    verb:

    • 1. to come back or go back to a place or condition.
      • Example: After a long vacation, we will return home on Sunday.
    • 2. to give, send, or bring something back to a person or place.
      • Example: Please return the library books by the due date.
    • 3. to report or record something.
      • Example: He was asked to return a verdict of not guilty.

    Etymology

    Middle English: from Old French 'retourner', from Latin 're-' (back) + 'tornare' (to turn)

    Common Phrases and Expressions

    return the favor:

    to do something nice for someone who has done something nice for you

    return on investment:

    the gain or loss made on an investment relative to the amount invested

    return of the Jedi:

    a title of one of the films in the Star Wars franchise

    Related Words

    revert:

    to return to a previous state or condition

    restitution:

    the restoration of something lost or stolen to its proper owner

    reunion:

    the act of coming together again after a period of separation

    Slang Meanings of return

    Meaning: to come back after leaving

    Example Sentence: He's just returning from the club.

    Meaning: to give something back informally

    Example Sentence: I'll return the favor when I can.