back out

verb

backed out; backing out; backs out
Synonyms of back outnext

intransitive verb

: to withdraw especially from a commitment or contest

Synonyms of back out

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Examples of back out in a Sentence

she backed out on her offer to help with the wedding planning
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.
Reardon added that some dock space rentals have been canceled, and Airbnb renters have backed out. — Mike Sullivan, CBS News, 30 June 2026 Poppyseed grapefruit cake cooled and removed from its pan, then popped back in for travel—and popped back out for slicing at the event? — Melissa Kravitz Hoeffner, Martha Stewart, 30 June 2026 Beyond that, a truce means whatever the negotiators will tolerate as long as none backs out of talks. — ABC News, 1 July 2026 If treatment is unavoidable, choose pet-safe formulas and wait until the yard is fully dry before letting your dog back out. — Ryan Brennan, Miami Herald, 2 July 2026 See All Example Sentences for back out

Word History

First Known Use

1801, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of back out was in 1801

Rhymes for back out

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Browse Nearby Words

back-ordered
back out
backpack
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Cite this Entry

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

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