backsliding
backsliding Lexical Profile
backsliding Game Scores & Validity
• noun
The act or process of relapsing into bad habits, undesirable behavior, or an inferior state after making positive progress.
"Maintaining a strict budget requires discipline to avoid financial backsliding."
A falling away from religious faith, moral standards, or spiritual commitment.
"The sermon warned the congregation against spiritual backsliding during times of hardship."
• adjective
Relapsing into undesirable habits, sinful behavior, or a worse condition after a period of improvement.
"The pastor offered words of encouragement to the backsliding members of the congregation."
• Nearby Words
Word Origin & Etymology
Coined in the 16th century by English Bible translator William Tyndale from 'back' and 'slide' to render Hebrew terms describing a spiritual or moral falling away from faith.