English Reference
noun

comeback

n.
US /ˈkəmˌbæk/ UK /kˈʌmbæk/ come·back UK spelling comebacks

  1. 01 B2 Upper Intermediate

    a return to fame, success, or popularity after being away or unsuccessful for a long time.

    a return to a former state of success, popularity, or professional activity after a period of absence or decline.

    Simple

    The band is planning a massive comeback tour ten years after their last album.

    In context

    After years of struggling with injuries, the tennis star made a remarkable comeback by winning the grand slam title.

  2. 02 B2 Upper Intermediate Sport

    a situation where a team or player wins a game after they were losing by a lot.

    a victory achieved by a contestant or team that was previously trailing by a significant margin.

    Simple

    The team staged an amazing comeback in the final minutes to win the game.

    In context

    Down by three goals at halftime, the underdogs mounted a historic comeback that left the home crowd in stunned silence.

  3. 03 C1 Advanced Informal

    a quick and clever or funny answer to a criticism or comment.

    a quick, witty, or sharp retort made in response to a remark or criticism.

    Simple

    I thought of a great comeback an hour after the argument was over.

    In context

    She was famous for her sharp wit and always had a devastating comeback ready for any interviewer who tried to rattle her.

    Usage

    Often used with the verb 'have' or 'make'.

After his death, manager Mla Tengimfene confirmed he had been training for a comeback fight after his ban ended.

BBC News· 24 Aug 2026

Experts worry that the conflict in Iran and other regional dynamics are setting the stage for a Somali pirates’ comeback.

The New York Times· 21 Aug 2026

Deverbal from come back.

Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.

This entry
Level B2 · Upper Intermediate
Frequency Common
Updated