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roll back the years

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roll back the years

1. To perform at an exceptionally high level despite no longer being young and in one's prime. (Used especially in reference to athletes.) O'Connor, playing his 15th championship match in this league, rolled back the years and stood out as one of the best players on the pitch. Will the retired skater, seeking a gold medal after all this time, be able to roll back the years and keep step with the competition?

2. To induce a sense or state of nostalgia; to be reminiscent of or make people think about the past. Wow, those bell-bottom pants you're wearing really roll back the years to the 1970s. Hearing this song again rolls back the years to a time when I was young and carefree.

See also: back, roll, year