# comeback

/ˈkəmˌbæk/ (US) · /kˈʌmbæk/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/comeback
Updated: 2026-06-19

## Senses

### 1. return to success

noun · CEFR B2

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

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

- The band is planning a massive comeback tour ten years after their last album.
- After years of struggling with injuries, the tennis star made a remarkable comeback by winning the grand slam title.

### 2. sports victory from behind

noun · CEFR B2

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

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

- The team staged an amazing comeback in the final minutes to win the game.
- Down by three goals at halftime, the underdogs mounted a historic comeback that left the home crowd in stunned silence.

### 3. clever reply

noun · CEFR C1 · Informal

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

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

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

## Examples

- The team made a great comeback in the second half.
- After five years away from the spotlight, the singer is planning a major comeback with a new world tour.
- Trailing by three goals with only ten minutes remaining, the underdog side staged an improbable comeback that will be remembered as a turning point in their season.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.