returnable

[ ri-tur-nuh-buhl ]

adjective

1. that may be returned:

   returnable merchandise.

2. requiring a return, as a writ to the court from which it is issued.

noun

1. a beverage bottle or can that can be returned when empty for refund of a deposit.

Other Words From

• re·turna·bili·ty noun
• unre·turna·ble adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of returnable¹

1375–1425; 1960–65 returnable fordef 3; late Middle English retournable. See return, -able

Example Sentences

For several months last year, patrons of a Seattle coffee shop called Tailwind Cafe had the option of ordering their Americanos and lattes in returnable metal to-go cups.

From Salon

“Any version of a 2020 rover mission that does not prepare a returnable cache would seriously delay any significant progress toward sample return,” it noted.

From Scientific American

I buy milk in returnable glass bottles, and I take jars to places where I can get cooking oil in bulk.

From Los Angeles Times

Loop, for example, helps its corporate clients set up the "reverse logistics" infrastructure that forms the backbone of returnable packaging systems.

From Salon

In addition to shrinking can sizes or offering cheaper, returnable bottles in some markets, Coke has has been promoting more expensive products, like soft drinks in slimmer cans.

From Seattle Times