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Definition of backtrack

backtrack

/ˈbæk.træk/
back · track
Plural:backtracks
•
Past Simple:backtracked
•
Past Participle:backtracked
•
Present Participle:backtracking
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backtrack Lexical Profile

backtrack Game Scores & Validity

• verb

1

To reverse one's previous position, decision, or statement, especially under pressure.

Example

"After facing widespread public criticism, the company decided to backtrack on its plan to raise subscription fees."

2

To retrace one's steps or return along the same path by which one came.

Example

"When the hiking trail ended at a steep cliff, we had to backtrack two miles to the main junction."

Synonyms
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Antonyms
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• noun

1

An act of retracing one's steps or reversing a previous policy, statement, or course of action.

Example

"The minister's sudden backtrack on the tax proposal surprised both his supporters and critics."

Synonyms
View all synonyms for backtrack
Antonyms
View all antonyms for backtrack

• Nearby Words

backstroker
backswing
backtalk
backtrack
backup
backwall
backward

Word Origin & Etymology

Originated in late 19th-century American English as a compound of 'back' and 'track', initially referring to the literal act of following a trail or footsteps backward.

Cite this Entry

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