take aback
phrasal verb
took aback; taken aback; taking aback; takes aback
: to surprise or shock (someone)
—usually used as (be) taken aback
When I told him my answer, he seemed taken aback.
—often + byHe was taken aback by her answer.
Examples of take aback in a Sentence
Recent Examples on the Web
The 7 Rings singer was at a photo call in Sydney following the Australian premiere of the film, and looked taken aback when someone passed her their pet pooch.
—
Thomas G. Moukawsher, Newsweek, 7 Nov. 2024
Tommy is taken aback — not so much by the Abby stuff, but by Buck’s sudden proposition.
—Louis Peitzman, Vulture, 7 Nov. 2024
The employee, played by Mulaney, is taken aback when Davidson asks for a gallon of milk.
—Katie Campione, Deadline, 2 Nov. 2024
He was somewhat taken aback by Jamie Kennedy and Lillard's broad performances on the first day of shooting.
—Jordan Runtagh, People.com, 1 Nov. 2024
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Thomas G. Moukawsher, Newsweek, 7 Nov. 2024
Tommy is taken aback — not so much by the Abby stuff, but by Buck’s sudden proposition.
—Louis Peitzman, Vulture, 7 Nov. 2024
The employee, played by Mulaney, is taken aback when Davidson asks for a gallon of milk.
—Katie Campione, Deadline, 2 Nov. 2024
He was somewhat taken aback by Jamie Kennedy and Lillard's broad performances on the first day of shooting.
—Jordan Runtagh, People.com, 1 Nov. 2024
See all Example Sentences for take aback
Dictionary Entries Near take aback
Cite this Entry
“Take aback.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/take%20aback. Accessed 29 Nov. 2024.
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