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

Explanation

A boomerang is a curved piece of wood that returns to the thrower if tossed correctly. To boomerang is to bounce back to a previous position like a boomerang. This word comes whirling to us from an Australian language (Dharuk). The primary meaning is the curved stick that returns to its owner after being thrown. Not just anyone can make a boomerang return: it takes practice and skill. Because a boomerang returns to its original point, it’s also a verb for things that return. This is often used negatively for things you would rather not see again: if a lie boomerangs, it comes back to haunt you.

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,” Swanson said.

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

In the thin light, even the whirling boomerang print of the vinyl tablecloth seemed tranquil; it was easy to imagine Helen sitting across from her, head bowed, asking forgiveness.

From "Typical American" by Gish Jen