cutback

1 of 2

noun

cut·​back ˈkət-ˌbak How to pronounce cutback (audio)
1
: something cut back
2
: reduction
a cutback in funding

cut back

2 of 2

verb

cut back; cutting back; cuts back

transitive verb

: to shorten by cutting : prune

intransitive verb

1
: to interrupt the sequence of a plot (as of a movie) by introducing events prior to those last presented
2
: cut down
cut back on sugar

Examples of cutback in a Sentence

Verb we need to cut back the bushes a bit so that the house number is visible from the street cut back the meeting so everyone could leave early for the long weekend
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.
Noun
And for more on the legal fallout from the Trump administration's federal cutbacks, I'm joined now by former New Jersey governor and U.S. attorney, Chris Christie. ABC News, 23 Feb. 2025 When executed properly, a cutback cross can be almost impossible to defend as the opposition retreats towards their goal line to leave space for an onrushing team-mate to attack. Mark Carey, The Athletic, 22 Feb. 2025
Verb
That could signal whether businesses are ramping up spending or cutting back. Adam Sarhan, Forbes, 24 Feb. 2025 Pearl estimated the ordinance would cost District 64 an additional $1 million a year, which would force them to shift resources and cut back elsewhere to compensate. Alan Kozeluh, Chicago Tribune, 21 Feb. 2025 See All Example Sentences for cutback

Word History

First Known Use

Noun

1897, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Verb

1871, in the meaning defined at transitive sense

Time Traveler
The first known use of cutback was in 1871

Browse Nearby Entries

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Cite this Entry

“Cutback.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/cutback. Accessed 27 Feb. 2025.

Kids Definition

cutback

1 of 2 noun
cut·​back ˈkət-ˌbak How to pronounce cutback (audio)
: an act or instance of cutting something back

cut back

2 of 2 verb
ˈkət-ˈbak
1
2
: to reduce something in amount
cut back on smoking
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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