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.
The union, Starbucks Workers United, alleges the strike was necessary after claiming Starbucks backtracked on its public promises to reach new contracts by the end of the year. Olivia Evans, The Courier-Journal, 24 Dec. 2024 So even though Coyle was backtracking into the Boston Bruins’ zone with Connor McMichael on his back, Lindholm placed enough faith in his linemate to go on the attack. Fluto Shinzawa, The Athletic, 24 Dec. 2024 Multiple Democrats, including Texas Rep. Collin Allred, backtracked on past support for transgender inclusion in women's sports. Jackson Thompson, Fox News, 20 Dec. 2024 And as companies have grappled with the difficulty of actually aligning with net-zero emissions goals, many have backtracked their ambitions. Justin Worland, TIME, 13 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 20 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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