take aback

phrasal verb

took aback; taken aback; taking aback; takes aback
Synonyms of take abacknext
: to surprise or shock (someone)
—usually used as (be) taken aback
When I told him my answer, he seemed taken aback.
—often + by
He was taken aback by her answer.

Examples of take aback in a Sentence

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.
At City Hall, some were taken aback by Szabo’s presentation. — David Zahniser, Los Angeles Times, 19 Mar. 2025 Sofia is initially taken aback by the request to sing. — Barry Levitt, Rolling Stone, 15 Mar. 2025 Then, they were taken aback when Greg later RVSPed for two meals when only he had been invited. — Erin Clack, People.com, 7 Mar. 2025 The band, who reworked the Britpop anthem into a heavier, more atmospheric version, admitted they were taken aback by Gallagher’s positive response. — Jessica Lynch, Billboard, 5 Mar. 2025 See All Example Sentences for take aback

Rhymes for take aback

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Browse Nearby Words

take
take aback
take a back seat
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Take aback.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/take%20aback. Accessed 1 Apr. 2025.

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