backtrack

verb

back·​track ˈbak-ˌtrak How to pronounce backtrack (audio)
backtracked; backtracking; backtracks

intransitive verb

1
a
: to retrace one's course
b
: to go back to an earlier point in a sequence
2
: to reverse a position

Examples of backtrack in a Sentence

The hikers realized they had made a wrong turn and would have to backtrack. Let me backtrack for a moment and pick up our previous conversation.
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.
Initially, there were no plans for refunds, but Spotify backtracked after buyers complained. Chloe Albanesius, PCMAG, 16 Dec. 2024 But in February 2023 — on the night before the deal was supposed to receive final approval — the EDC backtracked, cancelled the procurement and launched an entirely new bidding process. Evan Simko-Bednarski, New York Daily News, 13 Dec. 2024 Yoon, a member of the conservative People Power Party, backtracked on his declaration within hours. Joohee Cho, ABC News, 11 Dec. 2024 One key witness, a former top aide to Netanyahu, stunned prosecutors by backtracking from his earlier claims against the prime minister, opening the door for the defense to erode his credibility as a witness. Tia Goldenberg, Los Angeles Times, 9 Dec. 2024 See all Example Sentences for backtrack 

Word History

First Known Use

1870, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Time Traveler
The first known use of backtrack was in 1870

Dictionary Entries Near backtrack

Cite this Entry

“Backtrack.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/backtrack. Accessed 1 Jan. 2025.

Kids Definition

backtrack

verb
back·​track ˈbak-ˌtrak How to pronounce backtrack (audio)
1
: to go back over a course or path
2
: to reverse a position or stand

More from Merriam-Webster on backtrack

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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