boomerang

/ˌbuməˈræŋ/

/ˈbuməræŋ/

Other forms: boomerangs; boomeranged; boomeranging

A boomerang is a curved piece of wood that returns to the thrower if tossed correctly. To boomerang is to bounce back to a previous position like a boomerang.

This word comes whirling to us from an Australian language (Dharuk). The primary meaning is the curved stick that returns to its owner after being thrown. Not just anyone can make a boomerang return: it takes practice and skill. Because a boomerang returns to its original point, it’s also a verb for things that return. This is often used negatively for things you would rather not see again: if a lie boomerangs, it comes back to haunt you.

Definitions of boomerang

1. noun

   a curved piece of wood; when properly thrown will return to thrower
   synonyms: throw stick, throwing stick

   types:

   kiley, kylie

   an Australian boomerang; one side flat and the other convex

   type of:

   missile, projectile

   a weapon that is forcibly thrown or projected at a target but is not self-propelled
2. noun

   a miscalculation that recoils on its maker
   synonyms: backfire

   type of:

   miscalculation, misestimation, misreckoning

   a mistake in calculating
3. verb

   return to the initial position from where it came; like a boomerang
   type of:

   return

   go or come back to place, condition, or activity where one has been before