1. curved throwing sticks that return to the thrower when thrown properly, traditionally used by Australian Aboriginal peoples
2. actions or statements that have an unexpected negative effect on the person who made them
Usage: figurative

1. to return unexpectedly to harm or affect the originator

Examples

• The children learned to throw boomerangs at summer camp.
• Traditional boomerangs were carved from hardwood.
• His harsh criticism boomerangs back to damage his own reputation.
• The politician’s attack ads boomeranged when voters turned against him.
• She collected decorative boomerangs from her trip to Australia.
• The plan to cut funding boomerangs by reducing program effectiveness.
• Ancient boomerangs were used for hunting and sport.