comeback

[kuhm-bak]

noun

1. a return to a former higher rank, popularity, position, prosperity, etc..

   The ex-champion kept trying to make a comeback.

2. a clever or effective retort; rejoinder; riposte.

   That was a great comeback the comedian made to the hecklers.

3. Informal.,  a basis or cause of complaint.

   If you insist on buying these pointed shoes, you'll have no comeback when your toes start to hurt.

comeback

/ ˈkʌmˌbæk /

noun

1. a return to a former position, status, etc

2. a return or response, esp recriminatory

3. a quick reply; retort

verb

1. to return

2. to become fashionable again

3. to reply after a period of consideration

   I'll come back to you on that next week

4. to argue back; retort

5. (of something forgotten) to return to someone's memory

Word History and Origins

Origin of comeback¹

First recorded in 1815–25; noun use of verb phrase come back

Example Sentences

Justin Herbert throws a costly interception at the goal line, thwarting the Chargers’ comeback hopes in a 27-10 loss to the Washington Commanders.

From Los Angeles Times

The Denver Broncos went from dark horses to headline-makers thanks to a superb comeback win against Super Bowl champions the Eagles, before hopping on a plane for Sunday's game in London.

From BBC

Oasis guitarist and co-founder Paul 'Bonehead' Arthurs has had to pull out of the band's comeback tour after he was diagnosed with prostate cancer.

From BBC

Skipper was pleased with a defense that did not allow a point in the second half against Northwestern last week, helping the team’s comeback bid.

From Los Angeles Times

The veteran quarterback is the master of comebacks.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• improvement 
• rebound 
• resurgence 
• return 
• revival 
• victory 
• winning