back away

verb

backed away; backing away; backs away

intransitive verb

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

Synonyms of back away

• withdraw
• retreat
• fall back
• retire
• drop back

Examples of back away in a Sentence

backed away from the snake very slowly and carefully

Recent Examples on the Web

Semiconductors – Traders backed away from chips as the tech sector sold off hard Thursday. — Sarah Min, CNBC, 5 Nov. 2026

The Saudi Public Investment Fund’s decision to back away from LIV, which had been a major component in the Mideast nation’s effort to promote itself on the global stage, proved to be an insurmountable hurdle. — Dade Hayes, Deadline, 5 Nov. 2026

With a deep side part and her short strands slicked back away from her face, the look felt sleek and timeless, allowing her dazzling jewels to take center stage. — Amanda Le, InStyle, 4 Nov. 2026

According to Smith's review, officers backed away as HeeHaw approached. — Christopher Harris, CBS News, 4 Nov. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1833, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for back away

• aaa
• alleyway
• alumnae
• anime
• anyway
• arete
• attache
• axillae
• baa
• beaujolais
• bouvier
• breakaway