throwback

[ throh-bak ]

noun

1. Biology.
   1. the reversion to an ancestral or earlier type or character; atavism.
   2. an individual having the characteristics of a remote ancestor or primitive type; an example of atavism.
2. a person or thing that evokes memories or imitates something from the past (often used attributively): On their anniversary, she took to social media with a throwback photo from their wedding reception.

   These chandeliers are designed as a throwback to those old-style candlelit lanterns.

   On their anniversary, she took to social media with a throwback photo from their wedding reception.

3. an act of throwing back:

   A sudden ban on fish throwbacks could harm ecosystems, since a range of predator species are reliant on discarded fish as a food source.

4. a setback or check.

throwback

/ ˈθrəʊˌbæk /

noun

1. 1. a person, animal, or plant that has the characteristics of an earlier or more primitive type
   2. a reversion to such an organism

verb

1. intr to revert to an earlier or more primitive type
2. trfoll byon to force to depend (on)

   the crisis threw her back on her faith in God

Word History and Origins

Origin of throwback¹

First recorded in 1855–60; 1915–20 throwback fordef 1; noun use of verb phrase throw back

Example Sentences

“It’s the economy, stupid,” Madrid later posted on X, in a throwback to former President Clinton’s campaign mantra.

From Los Angeles Times

In a throwback to the delightful days of John Wooden, UCLA’s practices could be tougher than some of the games.

From Los Angeles Times

But ultimately it’s a facsimile: a new stadium hiding in throwback clothing.

From Los Angeles Times

But to lose by lunch was a throwback to some bad old days of England tours past.

From BBC

That could either be considered deeply un-British or a throwback to the kingdom’s much earlier days.

From Salon

Related Words

• estate
• gift
• tradition