fallback

1 of 2

noun

fall·​back ˈfȯl-ˌbak How to pronounce fallback (audio)
1
: something on which one can fall back : reserve
often used attributively
a fallback career
a fallback position
2
: a falling back : retreat
3
: something that falls back
the fallback from an explosion

fall back

2 of 2

verb

fell back; fallen back; falling back; falls back
Phrases
fall back on or fall back upon
: to have recourse to
had to fall back on their reserves

Examples of fallback in a Sentence

Verb resistance from native forces was greater than expected, and the invading army was forced to fall back
Recent Examples on the Web
Noun
Rather than a fallback, resilience propels one’s work forward, fueling a mindset that turns challenges into catalysts for progress. Dan Pontefract, Forbes, 28 Oct. 2024 The outtakes that end each installment of Poppa’s House leave the overall impression that it’s largely improvised, which may explain why there are certain fallback comic approaches and targets. Daniel Fienberg, The Hollywood Reporter, 21 Oct. 2024
Verb
Although the rate of inflation has fallen back to levels close to those pre-pandemic, the prices of goods have not decreased. Greg Petro, Forbes, 25 Oct. 2024 The footage, taken during a Starlink satellite delivery aboard the company's Falcon 9 rocket, shows a view of protective coverings known as payload fairings separating and falling back to Earth. Eric Lagatta, USA TODAY, 23 Oct. 2024 See all Example Sentences for fallback 

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'fallback.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

First Known Use

Noun

1830, in the meaning defined at sense 2

Verb

1607, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of fallback was in 1607

Dictionary Entries Near fallback

Cite this Entry

“Fallback.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/fallback. Accessed 5 Nov. 2024.

Kids Definition

fall back

verb
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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