drawback

1 of 2

noun

draw·​back ˈdrȯ-ˌbak How to pronounce drawback (audio)
1
: a refund of duties especially on an imported product subsequently exported or used to produce a product for export
2
: an objectionable feature : disadvantage
The plan's only drawback is its cost.

draw back

2 of 2

verb

drew back; drawn back; drawing back; draws back

intransitive verb

: to avoid an issue or commitment

Examples of drawback in a Sentence

Noun The trip sounds great, but cost is a major drawback. this plan has only one drawback: it's unworkable
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Noun
The only drawback is its poor aerodynamics, which limit its range and accuracy beyond 100-150 yards, and the recoil is punishing. Atharva Gosavi, Interesting Engineering, 30 Oct. 2025 The View From NBCUniversal As for Langley and NBCUniversal, there are far more upsides than drawbacks to doing a deal with Sheridan. Josef Adalian, Vulture, 30 Oct. 2025
Verb
Marat Khusnutdinov, who hasn’t played since his costly third period turnover in the B’s 3-2 loss in Utah on October 19, will draw back into the lineup and John Beecher will come out. Steve Conroy, Boston Herald, 27 Oct. 2025 In the third, Betts and Freddie Freeman drew back-to-back walks to light another fire against Yesavage. Bill Plunkett, Oc Register, 25 Oct. 2025 See All Example Sentences for drawback

Word History

First Known Use

Noun

1680, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Verb

1572, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of drawback was in 1572

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Cite this Entry

“Drawback.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/drawback. Accessed 4 Nov. 2025.

Kids Definition

drawback

noun
draw·​back ˈdrȯ-ˌbak How to pronounce drawback (audio)
: an undesirable feature : disadvantage entry 1

More from Merriam-Webster on drawback

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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