back burner

noun

: the condition of being out of active consideration or development
usually used in the phrase on the back burner
back-burner transitive verb

Examples of back burner in a Sentence

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.
Despite statements and expectations of significant action to be taken across the board to make the U.S. more hospitable to cryptoassets, including the creation of a crypto advisory council, politics and international headlines might very well put these items on to the back burner. Sean Stein Smith, Forbes, 19 Jan. 2025 While rent, utilities and groceries are okay, fast food, Uber rides and new shoes go on the back burner. Ryley Amond, CNBC, 31 Dec. 2024 From that point on, her acting career was put on the back burner. Scott Feinberg, The Hollywood Reporter, 24 Dec. 2024 Though some key pieces of legislation passed, the most sweeping measures were put on the back burner so city agencies can study the issue. Adam Tamburin, Axios, 23 Dec. 2024 See all Example Sentences for back burner 

Word History

First Known Use

1943, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of back burner was in 1943

Dictionary Entries Near back burner

Cite this Entry

“Back burner.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/back%20burner. Accessed 23 Jan. 2025.

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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