Back

/bæk/

Meaning & Definition

noun

The rear surface of the human body from the shoulders to the hips.

He has a tattoo on his back.

The part of a thing that is farthest from the front.

The back of the book has a summary of the content.

verb

To support or endorse someone or something.

I will back your proposal for the new project.

To move backward.

Please back away from the edge of the cliff.

adjective

Relating to the rear or a position that is not forward.

He took a back seat in the discussion.

adverb

In the opposite direction to the front.

He walked back to the store.

Again; once more.

She called him back to clarify the instructions.

Old English 'bæce', of Germanic origin; related to Dutch 'rug' and German 'Rücken'.

back out

To withdraw from a commitment.

back to the drawing board

To start over on a project.

give a backhanded compliment

To make a compliment that also conveys a negative remark.

back in the day

Referring to an earlier time.

behind someone's back

To do something secretly without someone's knowledge.

backward

Moving or directed toward the rear.

backlash

A strong adverse reaction to a change or recent event.

backseat

The seat behind the front seats in a vehicle.

To support someone or something.

I got your back in this deal.

Referring to something returning to a former state.

The band is back together for a reunion tour.