Backdown
a withdrawal from a previously held position, especially in the face of superior power or upon further consideration.
Historical Examples
The “minute-men” declared Mr. Toombs’ letter was a backdown.
Robert Toombs Pleasant A. Stovall
Hard words and a wrangle followed, but Smith did not change expression, and there was a backdown.
Whispering Smith Frank H. Spearman
It looks first-rate to a fellow that hasn’t got any backdown in him.
Romance of California Life
John Habberton
Mr. Greeley’s “On to Richmond” backdown was not more sad to me, not half so sad.
The Life and Work of Susan B. Anthony (Volume 1 of 2) Ida Husted Harper
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- Backdraught
noun a reverse movement of air, gas, or liquid an explosion that occurs when air reaches a fire that has used up all the available oxygen, often occurring when a door is opened to the room containing the fire
- Backed out
the rear part of the human body, extending from the neck to the lower end of the spine. the part of the body of animals corresponding to the human back. the rear portion of any part of the body: the back of the head. the whole body, with reference to clothing: the clothes on his […]
- Backed up
the rear part of the human body, extending from the neck to the lower end of the spine. the part of the body of animals corresponding to the human back. the rear portion of any part of the body: the back of the head. the whole body, with reference to clothing: the clothes on his […]
- Backend-to
in a reversed position; backward.
- Backer
a person who supports or aids a person, cause, enterprise, etc. a person who bets on a competitor in a race or contest. canvas or other material used for backing. Contemporary Examples When a golfer is out there on the course, any new bet he makes is probably made with his own money, without the […]