cutback

1 of 2

noun

cut·​back ˈkət-ˌbak 

1

: something cut back

2

: reduction

a cutback in funding

cut back

2 of 2

verb

cut back; cutting back; cuts back

transitive verb

: to shorten by cutting : prune

intransitive verb

1

: to interrupt the sequence of a plot (as of a movie) by introducing events prior to those last presented

2

: cut down

cut back on sugar

Synonyms

Verb

• shave
• cut
• clip
• trim
• lop (off)

Examples of cutback in a Sentence

Verb

we need to cut back the bushes a bit so that the house number is visible from the street

cut back the meeting so everyone could leave early for the long weekend

Recent Examples on the Web

Noun

Connor’s first step out of a cutback change is extraordinary. —Murat Ates, New York Times, 9 Oct. 2025

Also appearing on the panel was Jarmo Lampela, Head of Drama at YLE in Finland, who noted the Finnish market was significantly challenged with cutbacks across the cultural sector. —Jesse Whittock, Deadline, 7 Oct. 2025

Verb

Sentiment has been weak this year, but Americans haven’t cut back on their spending. —Bryan Mena, CNN Money, 10 Oct. 2025

Plus, crafting together can even be a fun way to celebrate Halloween that doesn't involve trick-or-treating and cuts back on candy. —Ellen Sturm Niz, Parents, 8 Oct. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

Noun

1897, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Verb

1871, in the meaning defined at transitive sense

Rhymes for cutback

• aback
• anzac
• attack
• backpack
• backtrack
• bareback
• blackjack
• brownback
• buyback
• callback
• cognac
• comeback

Kids Definition

cutback

1 of 2 noun

cut·​back ˈkət-ˌbak 

: an act or instance of cutting something back

cut back

2 of 2 verb

ˈkət-ˈbak

1

a

: prune entry 2 sense 2

b

: prune entry 2 sense 2a

2

: to reduce something in amount

cut back on smoking