back burner

American  

noun

1. a condition of low priority or temporary deferment (usually used in the phraseon the back burner ).

   Put other issues on the back burner until after the election.

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back burner British  

noun

1. put aside for the time being, as a subject that is not of immediate concern but that may be activated later; postponed

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Etymology

Origin of back burner

First recorded in 1945–50; from the custom in cooking of placing pots not requiring immediate attention toward the rear of the stove

Example Sentences

See Examples For:

back burner

The film tries to make a tongue-in-cheek commentary about how the “Scream” reboot pushed Neve Campbell to the back burner and focused on a new group of teenagers.

From Salon ● Jun. 11, 2026

Retirement savings went on the back burner at age 50 when Ed Myrick’s son was born.

From The Wall Street Journal ● Jun. 7, 2026

In the near-term for investors, the summit could keep concerns about U.S.-China on the back burner since both leaders are focused on stability.

From Barron's ● May 12, 2026

Right now, with all the discussion about the new rules, and the more entertaining racing this year, this particular topic is on the back burner.

From BBC ● Apr. 21, 2026

On the back burner, a pan of polenta simmered and popped.

From "The Season of Styx Malone" by Kekla Magoon