backstep

noun back·step \ ˈbak-ˌstep \

Definition of backstep

plural backsteps

: a backward step

A rugged, aggressive, hard-punching pugilist who refuses to take a backstep in the ring …
—San Gabriel Valley Tribune (California), 21 Oct. 2009

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First Known Use of backstep

1562

in the meaning defined above

See Words from the same year

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backstep

intransitive verb back·step \ ˈbak-ˌstep \

Definition of backstep

backstepped; backstepping; backsteps

1 : to take a step backward

Gwynn deflected the axe again and backstepped rapidly, trying to get some space in which to catch a breath.
—K. J. Bishop, The Etched City, 2003

2 : to modify, retreat from, or reverse a position or stand once taken : backtrack 2

Kentucky legislators forced multi-age classes on its elementary schools in 1992 as part of an education overhaul, but backstepped last year by allowing unhappy schools to opt out.
—Susan Hill Smith, Post and Courier (Charleston, South Carolina), 16 Sept. 1997