SET-BACK Definition & Meaning

View synonyms for

set-back

[ set-bak ]

Phonetic (Standard)IPA

noun

Surveying. the interval by which a chain or tape exceeds the length being measured.
setback ( def 4 ).

set back

verb

to hinder; impede
informal.
to cost (a person) a specified amount

noun

anything that serves to hinder or impede
a recession in the upper part of a high building, esp one that increases the daylight at lower levels
Also calledoffsetsetoff a steplike shelf where a wall is reduced in thickness

Discover More

51�Թ� History and Origins

Origin of set-back¹

Special use of setback

Discover More

Example Sentences

Examples have not been reviewed.

However, this would-be iron man recently suffered a set-back when he was arrested in the central African nation of Chad.

From

His run to the last 32 in Miami has taken him to 59th in the live rankings before this injury set-back.

From

This set-back took place while the Zephyr was testing the potential for such aircraft on behalf of the US Army.

From

It remains to be seen what this set-back means for the mine's operators and their plans for restoration work, which will now be the subject of increased scrutiny.

From

Murray said he was "not able to serve for essentially 10 days" following that latest set-back and, when asked whether he would appear again at Wimbledon, added it would depend on his physical condition.

From

Browse