Meaning #2: To go back (to a place where the speaker is not) for a short time.

Meaning #3: To return something (to give back)

As the definitions above indicate, “retourner” is used to refer to a return to a place where the subject of the sentence was previously and where the speaker is not.

Revenir;

Meaning: To come back (to the place where the speaker is).

Revenir is used to refer to a return to a place where the subject of the sentence was previously and where the speaker is currently.

Rentrer:

Meaning: “to return home” — no matter whether “home” is your country or your abode.

Examples:


Example #1: Ma mere adorait Rome. Elle voudrait y retourner l’année prochaine.

My mother adored Rome.  She would like to return there next year.


Example #2: “Zut ! Je dois retourner au bureau car j’y ai laissé mes clés! Je reviens tout de suite!”

Darn it! I have to return to my office because I left my keys there. I’ll come right back (here)!


 Example #3: Cette fête est géniale mais je suis fatiguée. Je rentre à la maison.

 This party is great but I’m tired. I’m going (returning) home.