Meaning & Definition of word "Return"

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.