turn back

verb

turned back; turning back; turns back

intransitive verb

1
a
: to go in the reverse direction
b
: to stop going forward
2
: to refer to an earlier time or place

transitive verb

1
: to drive back or away
2
: to stop the advance of
3
: to fold back
4
Phrases
turn back the clock
: to revert to or remind of a condition existing in the past

Examples of turn back in a Sentence

a cavalry charge that was turned back by withering fire
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.
It's been exciting to watch IU's Cinderella season, but even Cinderella's coach turned back into a pumpkin. Justin L. MacK, Axios, 20 Dec. 2024 On Wednesday, as police announced that the school had been turned back over to Abundant Life, the victims in the shooting were identified by authorities as well. John Diedrich, Journal Sentinel, 18 Dec. 2024 Each year, Ruf turns back the clock, rolling out a uniquely diverse touring blues caravan, with Fish and Ryder joining Canned Heat, Bernard Allison and Ghalia Volt for this year’s installment. Jim Ryan, Forbes, 17 Dec. 2024 Canadian authorities turned back about 1,000 people trying to cross into Canada between formal crossings in the 12 months ending in October, according to data obtained by Reuters, compared to more than 23,000 apprehended on the U.S. side by U.S. Customs and Border Patrol. Anna Mehler Paperny, The Christian Science Monitor, 16 Dec. 2024 See all Example Sentences for turn back 

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at intransitive sense 1a

Time Traveler
The first known use of turn back was in the 15th century

Dictionary Entries Near turn back

Cite this Entry

“Turn back.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/turn%20back. Accessed 26 Dec. 2024.

Kids Definition

turn back

verb
1
: to go in the reverse direction : return
turned back for home
2
: to stop the advance of : check
turned back the enemy
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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