back down

verb

backed down; backing down; backs down

intransitive verb

: to withdraw from a commitment or position

Synonyms of back down

• back out
• back off
• cop out
• recall

Examples of back down in a Sentence

if you back down about dinner again, I'm not going to agree to another date

Recent Examples on the Web

Roughly a week and a half on from the end of one of the best ever World Cups, news has dropped that bring FIFA and its president Gianni Infantino – fresh off their massive win in North America – crashing back down to Earth. — Patrick Sung Cuadrado, CNN Money, 29 July 2026

The spike in oil certainly adds to the case for a rate hike, but any resolution in the Mideast conflict could bring energy prices right back down. — Natasha Abellard, CNBC, 29 July 2026

The Middle East faces chaotic power shifts as Iran, despite taking a hammering, refuses to back down, though its regional influence is expected to wane. — Melik Kaylan, Forbes.com, 28 July 2026

As the confrontation unfolded, Barzon can be heard urging the suspect to back down. — Greg Wehner, FOXNews.com, 28 July 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1849, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for back down

• adown
• blowdown
• breakdown
• countdown
• crackdown
• crosstown
• downtown
• drawdown
• dropdown
• facedown
• godown
• hometown

Kids Definition

back down

verb

: to retreat from a stand one has taken or from a challenge one has accepted