turn back

verb

turned back; turning back; turns back

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
Phrases
turn back the clock
: to revert to or remind of a condition existing in the past

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.
While a mattress can't turn back time, a better mattress can lead to a lot of things: better sleep! Nena Farrell, Wired News, 26 Apr. 2025 But for one night, Leonard turned back the clock and secured the win for his team at a time when their backs were against the wall. Mikai Bruce, Forbes.com, 22 Apr. 2025 The 15-year-old turned back around to his grandmother and continued to stab her. Charna Flam, People.com, 18 Apr. 2025 Several countries have toughened advisories for citizens wishing to travel to the U.S. under the Trump administration — warning them there could be greater scrutiny at borders after some foreign travelers were turned back. Nicholas Creel, MSNBC Newsweek, 18 Apr. 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 29 Apr. 2025.

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
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