returnee

noun

re·​turn·​ee ri-ˌtər-ˈnē How to pronounce returnee (audio)
: one who returns
especially : one returning to the U.S. after military service overseas

Examples of returnee in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
With so few guest rooms and so many loyal returnees, the staff remembers you instantly. — Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 3 Sep. 2026 To successfully integrate these returnees, Damascus must empower governorates and municipalities with the resources and autonomy to solve problems pertaining to service delivery, job creation, and education in real time. — Jesse Marks, Foreign Affairs, 31 Aug. 2026 Purdue has two solid, experienced returnees in Smiley Bradford and Hudauri Hines, and a group of transfers who could help, too. — Michael Marot, Chicago Tribune, 31 Aug. 2026 The Gophers bring back the Big Ten’s top sack leader in Anthony Smith and boast returnees at all the key spots. — Scott Dochterman, New York Times, 23 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for returnee

Word History

First Known Use

1944, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of returnee was in 1944

Rhymes for returnee

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Browse Nearby Words

returned shipment rate
returnee
return envelope
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Returnee.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/returnee. Accessed 4 Sep. 2026.

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Kids Definition

returnee

noun
re·​turn·​ee ri-ˌtər-ˈnē How to pronounce returnee (audio)
: one who returns
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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