back out

verb

backed out; backing out; backs out

intransitive verb

: to withdraw especially from a commitment or contest

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.
In addition to ending several college deals and its on-field NFL pact, Under Armour backed out of an agreement to outfit MLB and paid a penalty. Kurt Badenhausen, Sportico.com, 25 Mar. 2025 Payton and Brady, once Plan A for the Dolphins, backed out of coming and hiring Mike McDaniel became Plan B. The NFL investigated Flores’ allegation that Ross offered money to lose games. Dave Hyde, Sun Sentinel, 23 Mar. 2025 Altman planned to build a 354-unit apartment community, but the developer backed out of the deal in 2022. Tyler Williams, Orlando Sentinel, 18 Mar. 2025 Players can back out of a bet during the game and receive bonus bets back with this offer. Dan Perry, Newsweek, 18 Mar. 2025 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

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Cite this Entry

“Back out.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/back%20out. Accessed 31 Mar. 2025.

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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