backpedal
backpedal Lexical Profile
backpedal Game Scores & Validity
• verb
To retreat from or reverse a previous statement, opinion, or policy, especially swiftly when challenged.
"After facing intense public criticism, the spokesperson began to backpedal on the controversial remarks."
To move or run backward with short, quick steps while remaining facing forward (especially in sports such as football, basketball, or boxing).
"The cornerback had to backpedal quickly to keep pace with the sprinting wide receiver."
To turn the pedals of a bicycle backward, such as to engage a coaster brake or adjust foot position.
"On a cruiser bike with a coaster brake, you simply backpedal to bring the wheels to a stop."
• noun
An act of reversing or retreating from a previously stated opinion, commitment, or position.
"The senator's sudden backpedal on the tax proposal alienated many of his early supporters."
A backward running movement performed while facing forward, used especially by defensive players in sports.
"The coach drilled the defensive backs on maintaining balance during a rapid backpedal."
Word Nuance & Usage
Do not confuse 'backpedal' with the homophone 'back-peddle' (which would literally mean to sell goods backward). In British English, the doubled-consonant forms 'backpedalled' and 'backpedalling' are standard, whereas American English prefers 'backpedaled' and 'backpedaling'.
• Nearby Words
Word Origin & Etymology
Coined in the late 19th century during the early cycling boom as a compound of 'back' and 'pedal', originally referring to pressing backward on bicycle pedals to slow down before the invention of hand brakes.