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.
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 Among the top returnees are defensive back Davaughn Patterson (80 tackles) and defensive lineman Langston Hardy (seven sacks). — Bob Ferrante, The Orlando Sentinel, 22 Aug. 2026 Meanwhile, Randy Dobnak is making the most of his opportunity and perhaps could be a starter next season, along with presumptive returnees Michael Wacha, Seth Lugo and Noah Cameron. — Kansas City Star, 21 Aug. 2026 The only senior returnees are outside hitter Katie Maddox and middle hitter Chloe Meyer. — Paul Johnson, Chicago Tribune, 20 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

See All Rhymes for returnee

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 1 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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