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

Here are some photos from Sunday afternoon’s back-and-forth showdown in Week 8. — Jeff Rosen, Kansas City Star, 2 Nov. 2026

All day on Sunday, there seemed to be a back-and-forth of praise from the right, and puzzled outrage on the left. — Ted Johnson, Deadline, 2 Nov. 2026

Adverb

At night, our tent offered a fragile haven from the elements, rocking back and forth like a ship in the violent winds that Werba had predicted. — John B. Snow, Outdoor Life, 11 Nov. 2026

That could be seen during the Finance Committee process, when requests for new positions in the Sheriff’s Office and Public Defender’s Office saw some back and forth. — Joseph States, Chicago Tribune, 11 Nov. 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