backtrack
verb/ˈbækˌtræk/
Frequency rank: #16,778 most common English word
Meaning
to reverse one's position or retrace steps after making a mistake or facing opposition.
Example sentence
When the new evidence came to light, the scientist had to backtrack on his earlier claims.
Synonyms & related words
Practice this word in the quiz
More words in ranks 16,701–16,800
- amputeea person who has had a limb surgically removed
- ashtraya small container used to hold cigarette ash and cigarette butts.
- askewNot in a straight or level position; crooked.
- attendeea person who attends an event or gathering
- authenticateto prove or verify that something or someone is genuine or valid.
- baffleto confuse or perplex someone completely
- balkto hesitate or refuse to proceed with something
- bellesbeautiful and charming young women, especially those who are socially admired.
- bodybuildersPeople who train intensively with weights to develop large, well-defined muscles.
- bulimiaan eating disorder characterized by episodes of overeating followed by purging behaviors such as vomiting