0 present participle of return
2 to give, do, or get something after something similar has been given or done to you:
to return an invitation/greeting
I returned his stare.
I gave her a ride when her car broke down and now she is returning the favour (= doing something to help me in exchange).
The terrorists started shooting and the police returned fire (= started shooting back).
His representatives did not return a request for comment.
She hadn't returned their earlier queries because, she said, she had already explained herself clearly.
My investments return a high rate of interest.
3 to send, take, give, put, etc. something back to where it came from:
4 to happen again:
5 to decide and say if you think someone is guilty or not guilty, or what punishment the person will be given in a court of law:
He was paged at the airport and told to return home immediately.
He returned in triumph from the sales with a half-price stereo system.
The opposition leader returned to a hero's welcome after seven years in exile.
She returned his smile.