1. returned unexpectedly to cause trouble for the originator
Usage: past tense of boomerang; often used figuratively

Examples

• His plan to embarrass his rival boomeranged when the evidence proved false.
• The negative campaign ads boomeranged and hurt her own reputation.
• The company’s cost-cutting measures boomeranged by reducing product quality.
• Her attempt to spread rumors boomeranged when people discovered the truth.
• The politician’s harsh criticism boomeranged during the debate.
• The prank boomeranged when the teacher found out who was responsible.