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.
In November, millions of Americans will turn back their clocks, marking the end of daylight saving time in 2025. Haadiza Ogwude, Cincinnati Enquirer, 4 Sep. 2025 Solomon, whose career has included penning big franchises (Bill & Ted, Men in Black), saw The Christophers as part of a larger turn back to first principles. Scott Roxborough, HollywoodReporter, 4 Sep. 2025 The third and final part focuses on the President (Idris Elba), who as the clock turns back again is making an appearance at a basketball game. Pete Hammond, Deadline, 2 Sep. 2025 Chapman is in the midst of a career season at age 37, turning back the clock to re-establish himself as one of baseball’s most dominant closers. Mac Cerullo, Boston Herald, 31 Aug. 2025 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

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Turn back.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/turn%20back. Accessed 6 Sep. 2025.

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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