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comeback

n.
US //ˈkəmˌbæk// UK //kˈʌmbæk// come·back
  1. 1 return to success (n.)
    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.

    Example

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

    Example

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

  2. 2 sports victory from behind (n.)
    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.

    Example

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

    Example

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

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  1. 3 clever reply (n.)
    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.

    Example

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

    Example

    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'.

Origin

Deverbal from come back.

Idioms1 entry

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