PULLBACK Synonyms: 14 Similar and Opposite Words

pullback

noun

ˈpu̇l-ˌbak

Definition of pullback

as in withdrawal

an act of moving away especially from something difficult, dangerous, or disagreeable the pullback was necessary so that the commanders could reorganize their units and reassess the situation

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Example Sentences

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.

Recent Examples of pullback Even disappointing results will likely be astonishing, meaning a pullback is unlikely to be severe. — Michael Khouw, CNBC, 28 Sep. 2026 Monday’s pullback in oil prices helped lower the pressure coming from the bond market. — Stan Choe, Los Angeles Times, 21 Sep. 2026 The head of the world’s best performing sovereign wealth fund warned of an impending pullback in US stocks. — Brendan Ruberry, semafor.com, 16 Sep. 2026 See All Example Sentences for pullback

Recent Examples of Synonyms for pullback

Noun

Joe Biden’s withdrawal from the presidential race in 2024 was an early case in point.

— Simon Denny, Artforum, 1 Oct. 2026
Others who express hesitation or opposition to bans often cite the risk of sending people who are dependent on 7-OH into withdrawal, and potentially leading them to other, more dangerous substances.

— Theresa Gaffney, STAT, 30 Sep. 2026

Definition of withdrawal

Noun

The Inn at Ormsby Hill Couples looking for a romantic retreat can check into The Inn at Ormsby Hill, a 10-room bed-and-breakfast housed in one of Manchester’s oldest buildings, dating to 1764.

— Lauren Dana Ellman, Travel + Leisure, 25 Sep. 2026
Quixote’s retreat comes amid a major slowdown in Hollywood production, as many productions leave California in pursuit of tax incentives around the world.

— Cerys Davies, Los Angeles Times, 25 Sep. 2026

Definition of retreat

Browse Nearby Words

pull away

pullback

pullbacks

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“Pullback.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/pullback. Accessed 2 Oct. 2026.

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Synonyms of pullback

noun

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