turn back

verb

turned back; turning back; turns back
Synonyms of turn backnext

intransitive verb

1
a
: to go in the reverse direction
b
: to stop going forward
2
: to refer to an earlier time or place

transitive verb

1
: to drive back or away
2
: to stop the advance of
3
: to fold back
4

see also turn back the clock

Examples of turn back in a Sentence

a cavalry charge that was turned back by withering fire
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.
Gaines headed back to the vehicle but turned back around and withdrew her Taser. Caleb Lunetta, San Diego Union-Tribune, 31 Dec. 2025 However, after 40 minutes, the pilot turned back to Birmingham after issuing the 7700 squawk emergency code over the French coast, Daily Express reported. Gabrielle Rockson, PEOPLE, 30 Dec. 2025 The technology'll be turned back around and sold for, like, 30% to 40% on the dollar. Sharyn Alfonsi, CBS News, 29 Dec. 2025 The senior scored 17 points as San Lorenzo turned back Elite 30-23 for her team’s first victory of the season. Darren Sabedra, Mercury News, 29 Dec. 2025 See All Example Sentences for turn back

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at intransitive sense 1a

Time Traveler
The first known use of turn back was in the 15th century

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Turn back.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/turn%20back. Accessed 7 Jan. 2026.

Kids Definition

turn back

verb
1
: to go in the reverse direction : return
turned back for home
2
: to stop the advance of : check
turned back the enemy
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!