back-and-forth

1 of 2

noun

ˈbak-ən(d)-ˈfȯrth 

: discussion sense 1, give-and-take

also : exchange sense 1

back and forth

2 of 2

adverb

: backward and forward

also : between two places or persons

Synonyms of back-and-forth

Noun

• exchange

Examples of back-and-forth in a Sentence

Noun

after the usual back-and-forth of official gifts, the two leaders entered into a serious discussion

the others listened with relish to the back-and-forth between the two noted professors

Adverb

The chair rocked back and forth.

The children were shuttled back and forth between school and home.

Recent Examples on the Web

Noun

The back-and-forth suggested the two sides were no closer to reaching an agreement that would reopen the Strait of Hormuz. — Kevin Liptak, CNN Money, 11 Aug. 2026

The back-and-forth exhibition opener was highlighted by the performance of undrafted rookie quarterback Haynes King, who replaced veteran Kenny Pickett following Carolina’s first scoring drive in the second quarter. — Mike Kaye, Charlotte Observer, 7 Aug. 2026

Adverb

The gondola swings back and forth and ‘swims’ when Sepp gets agitated. — Literary Hub, 11 Aug. 2026

One person interviewed by the Garfield County sheriff’s deputy who investigated the incidents said videos were taken and shared back and forth to make others jealous. — Seth Klamann, Denver Post, 10 Aug. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

Noun

1941, in the meaning defined above

Adverb

1613, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for back-and-forth

• fourth
• henceforth
• thenceforth