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Dictionary.com

hand back

VERB
restore
Synonyms
STRONGEST
replace return
WEAK
put back send back
Antonyms
WEAK
break damage destroy hurt
VERB
return
Synonyms
STRONGEST
give replace restore send
STRONG
bestow convey react rebate reciprocate recompense reestablish refund reimburse reinstate remit render repay requite reseat restitute retaliate transmit
WEAK
carry back make restitution pay back put back reinsert roll back take back thrust back toss back
Antonyms
STRONG
deprive hold keep refuse take
WEAK
ask depart leave pay request

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

This is not to hand back the financial power that they were just given, but rather, it’s for protection and convenience.

From MarketWatch • May 5, 2026

The new plan, being announced on Sunday, goes further by letting carriers hand back unused slots temporarily, while having the right to still use them the following year.

From BBC • May 2, 2026

But on Sunday military chief Min Aung Hlaing -- who has ruled by diktat for the past five years -- said the armed forces could be trusted to hand back power to a civilian-led government.

From Barron's • Dec. 29, 2025

Customers marched up to the Buffalo Exchange buy counter where an associate would assess them and hand back most of them.

From The Wall Street Journal • Oct. 16, 2025

Just to test it, Jack barely brushed the tip of his index finger against the hilt, then yanked his hand back.

From "Half Upon a Time" by James Riley