back down

verb

backed down; backing down; backs down
Synonyms of back downnext

intransitive verb

: to withdraw from a commitment or position

Synonyms of back down

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Examples of back down in a Sentence

if you back down about dinner again, I'm not going to agree to another date
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.
Trump never backs down from these rules, ever. — Bill Goodykoontz, AZCentral.com, 26 June 2026 Lower it back down with control. — Rikkilynn Shields Hannigan, Health, 24 June 2026 In spite of the backlash, the Seattle committee showed no signs of backing down. — Adam Crafton, New York Times, 26 June 2026 Aemond is not going to back down, and Aegon has already ditched his plan to abdicate. — Amanda Whiting, Vulture, 29 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for back down

Word History

First Known Use

1849, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of back down was in 1849

Rhymes for back down

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Browse Nearby Words

backdoor trots
back down
back draft
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Cite this Entry

“Back down.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/back%20down. Accessed 7 Jul. 2026.

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Kids Definition

back down

verb
: to retreat from a stand one has taken or from a challenge one has accepted

More from Merriam-Webster on back down

Nglish: Translation of back down for Spanish Speakers

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