back-and-forth

1 of 2

noun

ˈbak-ən(d)-ˈfȯrth 

: discussion sense 1, give-and-take

also : exchange sense 1

back and forth

2 of 2

adverb

: backward and forward

also : between two places or persons

Synonyms of back-and-forth

Noun

• exchange

Examples of back-and-forth in a Sentence

Noun

after the usual back-and-forth of official gifts, the two leaders entered into a serious discussion

the others listened with relish to the back-and-forth between the two noted professors

Adverb

The chair rocked back and forth.

The children were shuttled back and forth between school and home.

Recent Examples on the Web

Noun

Those techniques facilitate back-and-forth conversations between the target and the AI clone voice, potentially making the scam more convincing, Ajder said. —Cnn.com Wire Service, Mercury News, 29 May 2026

Officials at the Colorado amusement park say the change was made to reduce congestion and cut down on unnecessary back-and-forth travel. —Olivia Young, CBS News, 28 May 2026

Adverb

Be conscious of Mercury stationing retrograde on June 29, which could extend a trip abroad or send you back and forth unexpectedly. —Kirah Tabourn, Condé Nast Traveler, 28 May 2026

To apply your mascara like a pro, hold the wand toward the base of your lid and wiggle the brush back and forth for an even coat. —Bestreviews, Mercury News, 27 May 2026

Word History

First Known Use

Noun

1941, in the meaning defined above

Adverb

1613, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for back-and-forth

• fourth
• henceforth
• thenceforth