boomerang

American  

[boo-muh-rang] / ˈbu məˌræŋ /

noun

1. a bent or curved piece of tough wood used by Australian Aboriginal peoples as a throwing club, one form of which can be thrown so as to return to the thrower.

2. something, as a scheme or argument, that does injury to the originator.

3. Theater.

   1. a mobile platform, adjustable to different levels, for painting scenery.

   2. a batten, usually suspended vertically in the wings, for holding lighting units.

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verb (used without object)

1. to come back or return, as a boomerang.

2. to cause harm to the originator; backfire.

adjective

1. coming back, returning, or backfiring.

   the boomerang consequences of his lies.

2. Informal. of or noting a person who returns to their parents’ home or to a previous job after a period of living or working elsewhere.

   a boomerang kid;

   boomerang employees.

boomerang British  

/ ˈbuːməˌræŋ /

noun

1. a curved flat wooden missile of native Australians, which can be made to return to the thrower

2. an action or statement that recoils on its originator

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verb

1. (intr) to recoil or return unexpectedly, causing harm to its originator; backfire

Etymology

Origin of boomerang

First recorded in 1820–30; from Dharuk būmariny

Example Sentences

The boomerang is exceptionally well preserved, with score marks suggesting it had been polished and carved for use by a right-handed individual.

From BBC • Jun. 25, 2025

The very notion that generosity can boomerang may at first seem counterintuitive.

From Slate • Mar. 23, 2025

"While launching widespread tariffs may seem like an effective tool, they can boomerang and cause unintended consequences."

From Salon • Nov. 4, 2024

Wartilykirri is a hooked boomerang shaped like the number seven, used by Aborigines in southeastern Australia.

From Los Angeles Times • Jul. 24, 2024

I shrugged and looked at that spot on the wall again, the boomerang or cocoon or whatever.

From "We Were Here" by Matt De La Peña