Return

Definition

The term "return" describes the act of coming or going back to a place, condition, or situation, or the act of giving or sending something back.

Parts of Speech

• Verb
• Noun

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /rɪˈtɜrn/
• Respelling: ri-TURN

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /rɪˈtɜːn/
• Respelling: ri-TURN

Etymology

The word "return" originates from the Old French "retorner," meaning "to turn back," derived from Latin "re-" (back) and "tornare" (to turn). It entered Middle English in the 14th century.

Derivatives

• Returnable (adjective)
• Returned (adjective)
• Returning (noun/verb)
• Nonreturnable (adjective)
• Returner (noun)

Synonyms

• Revert
• Restore
• Repay

Antonyms

• Depart
• Leave
• Retain

Usage

The term "return" is used in various contexts, such as travel, finance, and everyday exchanges. For example: "He will return home tomorrow," or "The store accepts returns of defective items."

Related Terms

• Refund: A repayment of money.
• Restoration: The act of bringing something back to its original condition.
• Reversal: A change to an opposite direction or position.

Detailed Definitions

Verb

• To come or go back to a place or condition: Refers to physically or mentally revisiting a previous state.
  • Example: "She returned to the office after a week-long vacation."
• To give or send something back: Refers to restoring an item to its owner or origin.
  • Example: "He returned the library book on time."
• To repay or reciprocate: Refers to giving back in kind.
  • Example: "They returned the favor by hosting a dinner."

Noun

• The act of coming or going back: Refers to the process or event of revisiting a place or state.
  • Example: "Her return to the city was met with excitement."
• Something given back: Refers to an item or amount restored to its original source.
  • Example: "The store processed the return of the defective product."
• A profit or yield from an investment: Refers to the financial gain generated from resources or capital.
  • Example: "The stock provided a high return on investment."