takeaway

noun

take·​away ˈtāk-ə-ˌwā 

1

: a conclusion to be made based on presented facts or information : a main point or key message to be learned or understood from something experienced or observed

The takeaway is clear: cats are a growing environmental concern because they are driving down some native bird populations …

—Bruce Barcott

One of the main takeaways stressed by the panelists was that social media is about conversation, not just dissemination.

—Gabe Habash

2

: the first movement of the backswing in golf

3

chiefly British : takeout

4

: an act or instance of taking possession of the ball or puck from an opposing team

takeaway adjective

Examples of takeaway in a Sentence

We ordered some Chinese takeaway.

She works in a Chinese takeaway.

He leads the league in takeaways.

Recent Examples on the Web

But the takeaway from this week at Riviera isn’t just Bridgeman but the potential of what’s to come. —Brody Miller, New York Times, 23 Feb. 2026

That’s the biggest takeaway from the singer/songwriter’s magical, spirited and joyous performance Saturday night in front of a sold-out, absolutely reverent crowd at Target Center in downtown Minneapolis. —Ross Raihala, Twin Cities, 22 Feb. 2026

Five takeaways from the Miami Heat’s 136-120 win over the Memphis Grizzlies (21-34) on Saturday night at Kaseya Center to complete a back-to-back set. —Anthony Chiang, Miami Herald, 22 Feb. 2026

And, Elizabeth, my takeaway from what the trade representative just said is those refunds aren't coming until there’s a court order. —ABC News, 22 Feb. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1921, in the meaning defined at sense 3

Rhymes for takeaway

• andromache
• bioassay
• cabriolet
• cercariae
• communique
• companionway
• compositae
• decussate
• examinee
• fabaceae
• glyphosate
• microarray

Kids Definition

takeaway

noun

take·​away ˈtā-kə-ˌwā 

1

chiefly British : takeout sense 3

2

: an act or instance of taking possession of the ball or puck from an opposing team