noun
Uncommon
throwback
THROH-bak
Throwback (noun) means something or someone that recalls or resembles an earlier era or stage. Example: “The diner's decor is a throwback to the 1950s.”
noun
1
Something or someone that recalls or resembles an earlier era or stage.
"The diner's decor is a throwback to the 1950s."
"His old-fashioned manners are a throwback to a different generation."
"My next train is a throwback to earlier times. TfW is now the only operator of the old single-car Class 153s (apart from a handful of ScotRail bike-carrying conversions), and a pair of them have turned up to take me to Carmarthen."
— Paul Bigland, New trains, old trains, and splendid scenery (2022)
How to use throwback
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishSomething that reminds you of, or reverts to, an earlier time or style.
Common pairings
a throwback to
throwback style
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Word forms
- Plural
- throwbacks
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
The diner's decor is a _____ to the 1950s.
Etymology
A deverbal formation from throw back.
Synonyms
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Rhymes for throwback
See all rhymes for throwback →Frequently asked questions
What does “throwback” mean?
The word “throwback” means something or someone that recalls or resembles an earlier era or stage. In plain terms, something that reminds you of, or reverts to, an earlier time or style.
How do you pronounce “throwback”?
“Throwback” is pronounced THROH-bak (/ˈθɹoʊ.bæk/ in IPA).
How do you use “throwback” in a sentence?
Here is “throwback” used in a sentence: “The diner's decor is a throwback to the 1950s.”
What part of speech is “throwback”?
“Throwback” is a noun.
Is “throwback” a common word?
“Throwback” is an uncommon word in modern English.
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