Throwback

Part of speech: noun

Pronunciation: /ˈθɹəʊ.bæk/

Definitions

1. A nostalgic reference to an earlier time, style, or trend signifies a revival of past influences that evoke memories of former eras
2. An occurrence or item that reminds one of past fashions or practices can be regarded as a sentimental return to earlier times or aesthetics
3. A reminiscence of previous styles or eras often represents a nostalgic revival showcasing past influences and trends

Etymology: "Throwback" is built from the verb phrase "throw back," and it is a deverbal noun, meaning it was formed by taking a verb and turning it into a noun. The sense of "throw back" that matters here is the older one: to send something back toward where it came from, or to revert to an earlier condition. A throwback in the modern sense is therefore something that has been flung backward in time, a style or thing that reappears from an earlier era. The noun's core idea is physical before it becomes figurative. Throwing something back is an action with a direction, and the word's nostalgic meaning grew out of that sense of motion toward the past. Over time, the image of an object returning backward gave way to the idea of a whole fashion, sound or attitude coming back into view.

Synonyms: reversion, relic, remnant, survivor

Antonyms: advancement, progress, evolution