throw back

[vil]

Dear teachers,

Would you be kind enough to give me your considered opinion concerning my interpretation of the expression in bold in the following sentence?

The pavements were damp and they threw back the yellow light.

throw back = revert to an earlier type or stage in one’s past

throw back the yellow light = switch on the yellow light again

V.

[JMurray]

The pavements were damp and they threw back the yellow light.

vil.
I understand that as meaning the wet pavement reflected the yellow light, which perhaps was coming from overhead streetlights, a neon sign or some similar light source.

not a teacher

[vil]

Hi JMurray,

Thank you again for your helpful explanation.

I see what you mean.

to throw back = to reflect, to mirror back, as light for example

Thank you for your kindness.

V.