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

Yamamoto’s early exit put the onus on the Dodgers’ bullpen in a back-and-forth contest. — Maddie Lee, Los Angeles Times, 13 Oct. 2026

Typically, when embroiled in these sorts of escalating back-and-forths, Larry’s go-to move was the quit-and-storm-off. — Blake J. Harris, Vulture, 12 Oct. 2026

Adverb

He’s also been known to engage with those who might not be fans of his comedic stylings, publicly arguing back and forth with civilians, dragging them on his social media for his fans to see. — Chris Murphy, Vanity Fair, 14 Oct. 2026

Multiple anglers reeled in yellowfin tuna, which were visible through the clear water flitting back and forth near the boat. — Fedor Zarkhin, Los Angeles Times, 13 Oct. 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