have (someone) back

1 of 2

phrase (1)

1

: to be with (someone who has returned) again

Welcome home! It's great to have you back (with us again)!

We'd love to have you back for another visit.

He longs to have her back in his life.

The doctor said he'd like to have me back for more tests next week.

2

: to allow (someone) to return

He wants to return to his wife, but she won't have him back.

have (something) back

2 of 2

phrase (2)

: to receive (something) that is returned or restored

If I lend you this book, can I have it back by next Tuesday?

How I wish I could have my youth back (again)!

Examples of have (someone) back in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Phrase

Flagg became the youngest player in NBA history to have back to back 30-point double-doubles. — Lawrence Dow, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 2 Feb. 2026

It’s been a hit with some of our testers who have back pain and look to firm beds to maintain spine alignment. — Julia Forbes, Wired News, 30 Nov. 2025

Phrase

Ian James, Jayden Reid and Zorhan Bassong are players Wicky hopes to have back by the time Sporting next plays. — Daniel Sperry, Kansas City Star, 22 Mar. 2026

These fan-favorite Lululemon dance pants, which have back pockets and a roomy, casual fit, are now at their lowest price. — Stephanie Osmanski, Better Homes & Gardens, 28 Nov. 2025