Return

/rɪˈtɜrn/

Meaning & Definition

noun
the act of going back to a place after having been away.
The return of the migrating birds is a sure sign of spring.
something that is given back or sent back.
The return of the lost wallet was a huge relief.
the profit or income generated from an investment.
Investors were pleased with the return on their investment this year.
verb
to come back or go back to a place or condition.
After a long vacation, we will return home on Sunday.
to give, send, or bring something back to a person or place.
Please return the library books by the due date.
to report or record something.
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

Slang Meanings

to come back after leaving
He's just returning from the club.
to give something back informally
I'll return the favor when I can.