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Definition of backslide

backslide

/ˈbæk.slaɪd/
back · slide
Plural:backslides
•
Past Simple:backslid
•
Past Participle:backslidden
•
Present Participle:backsliding
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backslide Lexical Profile

backslide Game Scores & Validity

• verb

1

To relapse into bad habits, sinful behavior, or an undesirable former state after a period of improvement.

Example

"Without consistent accountability, it is easy to backslide into old spending habits."

Synonyms
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Antonyms
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• noun

1

An act or instance of relapsing into bad habits, undesirable behavior, or an inferior state.

Example

"The patient experienced a temporary backslide in his recovery after skipping several physical therapy sessions."

Synonyms
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Antonyms
View all antonyms for backslide

• Nearby Words

backside
backslapping
backslash
backslide
backslider
backsliding
backspace

Word Origin & Etymology

Coined in the 16th century as a compound of 'back' and 'slide', originally used in Protestant theological writing to describe a believer who relapses into sin or abandons religious faith.

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Backslide. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/backslide
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