back out

verb

backed out; backing out; backs out
Synonyms of back outnext

intransitive verb

: to withdraw especially from a commitment or contest

Examples of back out in a Sentence

she backed out on her offer to help with the wedding planning
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.
Faced with this challenge, a healthy cell will use its chemical energy to activate pumps to push sodium back out and restore its normal voltage. Elise Cutts, Quanta Magazine, 12 Jan. 2026 Simpson is a Miami target, according to 247Sports, and the Hurricanes previously convinced Ward and Beck to back out of the draft and play for UM instead. Adam Lichtenstein, Sun Sentinel, 12 Jan. 2026 Pulling up from the free-throw line with a defender a few feet ahead, Andrews’ midrange jumper rattled inside the basket before popping back out as the buzzer sounded. Shaun Goodwin, Idaho Statesman, 9 Jan. 2026 Other elk were nearby, and Scrivner thought it best to back out of the area and meet with his Army buddy Joe Cooper. Bob McNally, Outdoor Life, 8 Jan. 2026 See All Example Sentences for back out

Word History

First Known Use

1801, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of back out was in 1801

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Back out.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/back%20out. Accessed 13 Jan. 2026.

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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