back away

verb

backed away; backing away; backs away
Synonyms of back awaynext

intransitive verb

: to move away (as from a stand on an issue or from a commitment)

Examples of back away in a Sentence

backed away from the snake very slowly and carefully
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Put down the dye and scissors and back away slowly. Magi Helena, Dallas Morning News, 15 Feb. 2026 In instances when an agent approaches, a patroller typically backs away while recording the interaction, video footage posted to Union del Barrio’s YouTube page shows. Maura Fox, San Diego Union-Tribune, 15 Feb. 2026 Local politicians have called for Wasserman to back away from the Olympics committee. Los Angeles Times, 6 Feb. 2026 In a nation backing away from previous diversity commitments, there is little societal pressure for NFL owners to be better. Jerry Brewer, New York Times, 2 Feb. 2026 See All Example Sentences for back away

Word History

First Known Use

1833, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of back away was in 1833

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Cite this Entry

“Back away.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/back%20away. Accessed 20 Feb. 2026.

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