fallback

1 of 2

noun

fall·​back ˈfȯl-ˌbak 

1

: something on which one can fall back : reserve

—often used attributively

a fallback career

a fallback position

2

: a falling back : retreat

3

: something that falls back

the fallback from an explosion

fall back

2 of 2

verb

fell back; fallen back; falling back; falls back

intransitive verb

: retreat, recede

see also:

fall back on

Synonyms of fallback

Verb

• withdraw
• retreat
• drop back
• pull out
• retire

Examples of fallback in a Sentence

Verb

resistance from native forces was greater than expected, and the invading army was forced to fall back

Recent Examples on the Web

Noun

The administration’s fallback plan relies on Section 122, a statute that allows the president to impose an across-the-board temporary import surcharge of up to 15% for 150 days. —Nick Lichtenberg, Fortune, 23 Feb. 2026

Then, a scramble ensues to figure out a fallback plan with the homeowner — perhaps shoveling a path — so a return visit can be made before the oil tank runs dry. —Kenneth R. Gosselin, Hartford Courant, 15 Feb. 2026

Verb

Colorado’s defense fell back to earth in a turbulent 2025 season, though, and the Buffs recorded just six interceptions across 12 games. —Luca Evans, Denver Post, 25 Feb. 2026

Texas coach Sean Miller doesn't want to fall back into a hole and takes a timeout. —Thomas Jones, Austin American Statesman, 21 Feb. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

Noun

1830, in the meaning defined at sense 2

Verb

1607, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for fallback

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

Kids Definition

fall back

verb

: retreat entry 2 sense 1