Definition

A person who comes back to a place after being away for a period of time, often after military service or a journey.

Example

The returnee was welcomed back with a ceremony at the airport.

Conversation

Did you hear about the new returnee from the army in our neighborhood?

Yeah, I saw him at the coffee shop yesterday; he seems nice.

I wonder how it feels for a returnee to come back home after so long.

It must be a mix of excitement and anxiety, for sure.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Returnee → It is formed from "re-" (meaning again) and "turn" (from Old French *torner*, meaning to turn). The word "returnee" refers to someone who turns back or comes back again, typically after being away.

Memory Tip

Think of someone coming back 'again' ('re-') and 'turning' back to where they were — that's why a returnee is someone who has come back.

Visually Confused Words