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

Teams across the sector are focused heavily on full-duplex systems, or technology that enables natural, fluid back-and-forth conversations where users can interrupt the AI mid-sentence. — Sebastian Herrera, Fortune, 27 July 2026

Also, the flirty back-and-forth between Daniel and Helen is so much lighter than anything that ever happens in Silo 18. — Noel Murray, Vulture, 24 July 2026

Adverb

The ceremony was officiated by two sisters who were childhood friends of Nasko’s, and who spoke back and forth in English and Bulgarian so every guest could follow along and feel included. — Kaitlin Menza, Condé Nast Traveler, 29 July 2026

Together, these tweaks slash internal cell resistance by 15%, letting lithium ions zip back and forth with minimal friction. — Mrigakshi Dixit, Interesting Engineering, 29 July 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