Search results for 'return':

return verb (returned, returning) 1 intrans to come or go back again to a former place, state or owner • returned to Glasgow after two weeks. 2 to give, send, put back, etc a particular thing in a former position. 3 intrans to come back to in thought or speech • return to the topic later. 4 to repay with something of the same value • return the compliment. 5 tr & intr to answer or reply. 6 to report or state officially or formally. 7 to earn or produce (profit, interest, etc). 8 to elect as a Member of Parliament • was returned with an increased majority. 9 law said of a jury: to deliver (a verdict). 10 tennis, badminton, etc to hit back (a ball, etc) served by one's opponent. noun 1 an act of coming back from a place, state, etc. 2 an act of returning something, especially to its former place, state, ownership, etc. 3 something returned, especially unsold newspapers and magazines returned to the publisher, or a theatre ticket returned to the theatre for resale. 4 profit from work, a business or investment. 5 (often returns) a statement of someone's income and allowances, used for calculating the tax which must be paid • tax returns. 6 (usually returns) a statement of the votes polled in an election. 7 Brit a return ticket • a day return to Edinburgh. 8 an answer or reply. 9 a a ball, etc hit back after one's opponent's service in tennis, badminton, etc; b as adj forming, causing or relating to a return. 10 (in full return key) a a key on a computer or typewriter keyboard that takes the operator from the end of one line to the beginning of the line below; b a key on a computer keyboard used for various functions including the loading of software • Type 'install' and press 'Return'. returnable adj. by return of post by the next post in the return direction, ie immediately or as soon as possible. in return in exchange; in reply; as compensation. many happy returns (of the day) an expression of good wishes on someone's birthday.
ETYMOLOGY: 14c: from French retorner, from Latin tornare to turn.