backtrack

verb

back·​track ˈbak-ˌtrak 

backtracked; backtracking; backtracks

intransitive verb

1

a

: to retrace one's course

b

: to go back to an earlier point in a sequence

2

: to reverse a position

Examples of backtrack in a Sentence

The hikers realized they had made a wrong turn and would have to backtrack.

Let me backtrack for a moment and pick up our previous conversation.

Recent Examples on the Web

Earlier this year, company chairman Lawrence Stroll announced that Aston Martin was backtracking on a previous pledge to phase out internal combustion engine powertrains. —Bryan Hood, Robb Report, 3 Sep. 2024

Now, as that track begins slowly backtracking on charts all around the world, another tune from the musician’s EP seems like it could be headed for its moment of glory very, very soon. —Hugh McIntyre, Forbes, 17 Aug. 2024

According to People, the user backtracked and apologized for making an assumption. —Elizabeth Logan, Glamour, 6 Aug. 2024

Following her response, the Instagram user immediately backtracked and apologized for the assumption. —Vanessa Etienne, Peoplemag, 6 Aug. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1870, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Kids Definition

backtrack

verb

back·​track ˈbak-ˌtrak 

1

: to go back over a course or path

2

: to reverse a position or stand