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 of cutback

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

Von Tobel also highlights law, the restaurant industry, and construction as sectors that may see job cutbacks in the future but will still offer plenty of employment opportunities. —Elisabeth Sherman, Parents, 23 Feb. 2026

Losses were dramatically reduced in 2025 when compared with the cutbacks of 2023 and 2024, Beacon estimates show. —George Avalos, Mercury News, 23 Feb. 2026

Verb

And the cost of tariffs has reduced many companies’ profits, possibly leading them to cut back on hiring. —Christopher Rugaber, Fortune, 20 Feb. 2026

But in high-stakes moments—job interviews, presentations, big meetings—cutting back can sharpen how you’re perceived. —Angela Haupt, Time, 20 Feb. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

Noun

1850, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Verb

circa 1611, 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