back out

verb

backed out; backing out; backs out

intransitive verb

: to withdraw especially from a commitment or contest

Examples of back out in a Sentence

she backed out on her offer to help with the wedding planning
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.
Daughtry, citing Trump’s endorsement, backed out and endorsed Knott. Mark Harris, The Hill, 11 Dec. 2024 Joel, who ended a residency of his own at Madison Square Garden over the summer, will next perform on Long Island for New Year's Eve before heading back out on the road early next year. Sarah Michaud, People.com, 25 Nov. 2024 Kardashian covers her face—showing off her long French manicure—in a combination of fear and embarrassment, her eyes looking for either reassurance or permission to back out. Marci Robin, Allure, 19 Nov. 2024 After a brief intermission—where Kimmel and special guests RZA, Billie Eilish, and Finneas highlighted the charitable work of Homeboy Industries and Support And Feed—Metallica superfan Jason Momoa brought the band back out with a heartfelt, personal introduction. Brendan Hay, SPIN, 16 Dec. 2024 See all Example Sentences for back out 

Word History

First Known Use

1801, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of back out was in 1801

Dictionary Entries Near back out

Cite this Entry

“Back out.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/back%20out. Accessed 21 Dec. 2024.

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!