back out

verb

backed out; backing out; backs out
Synonyms of back outnext

intransitive verb

: to withdraw especially from a commitment or contest

Synonyms of back out

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Examples of back out in a Sentence

she backed out on her offer to help with the wedding planning
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.
But apart from that, there’s the matter of just how awfully spirit-lifting her earth-angel mezzo-soprano tends to be, even when backing herself into dark corners before backing her way back out again. — Chris Willman, Variety, 29 Aug. 2026 Sandy Creek comes right back out from the lightning delay and asserts dominance. — Jack Leo, AJC.com, 28 Aug. 2026 The couple was ready to back out, but the contractor promised to repair the damage at no extra cost, and an inspector said that Pinky’s bones were still good. — Nicola Twilley, New Yorker, 27 Aug. 2026 The relocations come after the City Council recently backed out of plans to make emergency repairs at the apartment complex after a new owner took over the property. — Dylan Lysen, Kansas City Star, 26 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for back out

Word History

First Known Use

1801, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of back out was in 1801

Rhymes for back out

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Browse Nearby Words

back-ordered
back out
backpack
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Back out.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/back%20out. Accessed 1 Sep. 2026.

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Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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