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returner

British  
/ rɪˈtɜːnə /

noun

  1. a person or thing that returns

  2. a person who goes back to work after a break, esp a woman who has had children

"Collins English Dictionary — Complete & Unabridged" 2012 Digital Edition © William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Andy Borregales is the kicker, Bryce Baringer the punter, and Marcus Jones is a second-team All-Pro punt returner.

From Los Angeles Times • Feb. 7, 2026

Back in 2013, Seattle traded a first-round pick to Minnesota for Percy Harvin, another triple-threat who was dynamic as a receiver, rusher and returner.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jan. 30, 2026

In the NFC championship game, returner Xavier Smith muffed a punt that was recovered by the Seahawks, who scored on the next play.

From Los Angeles Times • Jan. 29, 2026

"It's the great thing of being a good returner, you have a good chance of breaking in every game," she said.

From Barron's • Jan. 19, 2026

But Liam says, “What are you talking about? He could be a safety, or a punt returner, or a running back. Being smaller works for those positions.”

From "Free Lunch" by Rex Ogle