back down

verb

backed down; backing down; backs down

intransitive verb

: to withdraw from a commitment or position

Examples of back down in a Sentence

if you back down about dinner again, I'm not going to agree to another date
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
And most recently, Kraven the Hunter released, dragging back down the aggregate with poor reviews almost on par with Madame Web and Morbius. Andy Biggs, Newsweek, 24 Dec. 2024 Then, on one occasion, spending the entire trip back down into the Los Angeles basin with the engine off netted a total trip economy of 26.1mpg. Peter Nelson, The Verge, 23 Dec. 2024 When your chest touches the floor, pause, lift your hands one inch off the floor, place them back down, and push yourself back up. Alyssa Ages, Outside Online, 20 Dec. 2024 Hold for a few seconds, then lower your torso back down. Christopher Bergland, Verywell Health, 19 Dec. 2024 See all Example Sentences for back down 

Word History

First Known Use

1849, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of back down was in 1849

Dictionary Entries Near back down

Cite this Entry

“Back down.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/back%20down. Accessed 30 Dec. 2024.

Kids Definition

back down

verb
: to retreat from a stand one has taken or from a challenge one has accepted

More from Merriam-Webster on back down

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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