setback Meaning & Definition
ˈset-ˌbak
What Does Setback Mean?
Setback is used as a noun meaning a checking of progress. It is also used to mean defeat, reverse.
Setback: Key Facts
| Part of speech | noun |
|---|---|
| Pronunciation | /ˈset-ˌbak/ |
| Syllables | 2 |
| Synonyms | reverse, reversal and blow |
| Antonyms | status quo |
| Plural | setbacks |
| First known use | 1674 |
Setback Definition (Noun)
- a checking of progress
- defeat, reverse
- pitch:4
- a placing of a face of a building on a line some distance to the rear of the building line or of the wall below
- the area produced by a setback
- automatic scheduled adjustment to a lower temperature setting of a thermostat
- the distance of a structure or other feature (such as a well or septic system) from the property line or other feature
Synonyms of Setback
Setback synonyms and antonyms →Antonyms of Setback
Setback in a Sentence
After some initial setbacks, the expedition went safely on its way.
Setbacks were initially used for structural reasons, but now are often mandated by land use codes.
The explorers persevered despite suffering setbacks that would have discouraged lesser souls.
Word Forms & Grammar
setback
setbacks
setback (plural setbacks)
Words That Rhyme With Setback
Origin of Setback
Deverbal from set back. Compare drawback.
First Known Use
1674
How to Pronounce Setback
You say setback as /ˈset-ˌbak/. It has 2 syllables, with the main stress on the first syllable (set).
Setback: Your Questions Answered
What part of speech is setback?
Setback is a noun.
What is another word for setback?
Close synonyms of setback are reverse, reversal and blow. See the full list of setback synonyms and antonyms.
What is the opposite of setback?
The opposite of setback is status quo.
What is the plural of setback?
The plural of setback is setbacks.