switch·back
ˈswich-ˌbak 
: a zigzag road, trail, or section of railroad tracks for climbing a steep hill
switchback
adjective
switchbacked; switchbacking; switchbacks
: to follow a zigzag course especially for ascent or descent
a trail that switchbacks
Examples of switchback in a Sentence
Recent Examples on the Web
Jessica Chapel, Condé Nast Traveler, 3 June 2026
There are packs with smart compartments that make organization effortless, weather‑resistant builds that withstand unpredictable conditions, and lightweight designs that won’t slow you down on steep switchbacks.
—Paris Wilson, Travel + Leisure, 30 May 2026
Ritu Upadhyay, Footwear News, 23 May 2026
Hikers should take the Whiptail Loop Trail, which starts next to an informational sign about the preserve and switchbacks down the mountain’s southern side.
—Maura Fox, San Diego Union-Tribune, 13 Mar. 2026
See All Example Sentences for switchback
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Noun
Drivers needed a super-thin sole to feel the pedals, a rounded heel to pivot smoothly around sharp European switchbacks, and a tight suede fit.
—Jessica Chapel, Condé Nast Traveler, 3 June 2026
There are packs with smart compartments that make organization effortless, weather‑resistant builds that withstand unpredictable conditions, and lightweight designs that won’t slow you down on steep switchbacks.
—Paris Wilson, Travel + Leisure, 30 May 2026
Verb
The climb winds through cedar forest and switchbacks into remote Berber villages where the architecture grows out of the rock and days are timed to the sheep and the seasons.
—Ritu Upadhyay, Footwear News, 23 May 2026
Hikers should take the Whiptail Loop Trail, which starts next to an informational sign about the preserve and switchbacks down the mountain’s southern side.
—Maura Fox, San Diego Union-Tribune, 13 Mar. 2026
See All Example Sentences for switchback
Cite this Entry
“Switchback.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/switchback. Accessed 8 Jun. 2026.
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