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.
The decision comes as other global insurers have backed away from underwriting maritime trade activity in the Gulf amid concerns that vessels could become collateral damage in the Iran war. Mary Cunningham, CBS News, 4 Mar. 2026 Rather than backing away from these practices, the administration has now publicly doubled down. Amanda Cats-Baril, Twin Cities, 4 Mar. 2026 Polling has shown that Latinos in the state, as well as nationwide, are beginning to back away from the Republican Party due to concerns over the economy and immigration enforcement. Ashley Lopez, NPR, 3 Mar. 2026 About two minutes into the exchange, Jones begins galloping toward Prignano, who is able to back away and keep his distance from him as the two are in the middle of the street. Kellie Love, Hartford Courant, 3 Mar. 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 12 Mar. 2026.

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