Many Happy Returns of the Day
Have you ever received a birthday card that says “many happy returns of the day” and wondered what it means? You are not alone. It is one of the oldest and most charming birthday greetings in the English language, and on this page you will find its meaning, how to use it, and plenty of many happy returns of the day wishes that you can copy and send.
What does “many happy returns of the day” mean?
“Many happy returns of the day” is a traditional way of saying happy birthday. When you wish someone many happy returns of the day, you are wishing that this happy day – their birthday – will return many more times. In other words, you are wishing that they will live to celebrate many more birthdays in good health and happiness.
The phrase dates back hundreds of years and is still widely used today, especially in British and Indian English. It is a warm, slightly formal and old-fashioned way to say happy birthday that stands out from the usual “happy birthday to you”.
How to reply to “many happy returns of the day”
If someone wishes you many happy returns of the day, a simple and polite reply is enough. You can say:
- “Thank you so much!”
- “Thank you, that is very kind of you.”
- “Thank you for the lovely wishes!”
You do not need to repeat the phrase back unless it is also their birthday.
Many happy returns of the day – birthday wishes and messages
Here are the best many happy returns of the day messages that you can copy and send to a friend, a family member or a colleague on WhatsApp, Facebook, Messenger or SMS:
Wishing you many happy returns of the day! May this year bring you good health, great success and endless happiness.
Many happy returns of the day, dear friend! May every birthday find you healthier, happier and more blessed than the last.
Happy birthday and many more happy returns of the day! May you live a long, joyful and wonderful life.
Wish you many more happy returns of the day! May all of your dreams come true this year and always.
On your special day, I wish you many happy returns of the day. May God bless you with love, laughter and good fortune.
Many happy returns of the day! May your life be filled with countless more birthdays, each one better than the one before.
Sending you warm wishes and many happy returns of the day. Enjoy every single moment of your special day!
Happy birthday! Many happy returns of the day to a truly wonderful person. You deserve all the happiness in the world.
Wishing you a very happy birthday and many more happy returns of the day. May this year be your best one yet!
Many happy returns of the day! May you always be surrounded by the people you love and the things that make you smile.
May you enjoy many happy returns of the day, with good health and great joy in every coming year. Happy birthday!
Happy birthday and many happy returns of the day! Here is to another year of beautiful memories and exciting adventures.
Wish you many more happy returns of the day, my dear. May your heart always be light and your days always be bright.
Many happy returns of the day to someone truly special. May this birthday mark the beginning of your happiest year yet.
Wishing you health, wealth and many happy returns of the day. Have a fantastic birthday and an even better year ahead!
Many happy returns of the day! May every candle on your cake bring a wish that comes true. Happy birthday!
Looking for more birthday ideas? Browse our birthday wishes for a friend, birthday wishes for a brother and birthday wishes for a sister.