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

Neither team has pressed forward with much conviction in the first 15 minutes, and after some back-and-forth passing on the back line of the Netherlands' defense, boos could be heard from restless spectators in Monterrey. — Andrew Greif, NBC news, 30 June 2026

For concentrated light, opt for multiple back-and-forth strands of string lights. — Wendy Rose Gould, Martha Stewart, 29 June 2026

Adverb

The world is watching like spectators at a tennis match, swiveling back and forth as governments and enterprises decide which side to rely on. — Craig S. Smith, Forbes.com, 1 July 2026

The communication back and forth isn't happening. — Dana Taylor, USA Today, 29 June 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