back-pedal

[ bak-ped-l ]

verb (used without object)

, back-ped·aled, back-ped·al·ing or (especially British) back-ped·alled, back-ped·al·ling.

1. to retard the forward motion by pressing backward on the pedal, especially of a bicycle with coaster brakes.
2. to retreat from or reverse one's previous stand on any matter; shift ground:

   to back-pedal after severe criticism.

3. Boxing. to retreat from an opponent, especially by stepping rapidly backward.

back-pedal

verb

1. to turn the pedals of a bicycle backwards
2. to retract or modify a previous opinion, principle, etc
3. boxing to take backward steps

Word History and Origins

Origin of back-pedal¹

First recorded in 1895–1900

Example Sentences

Well upset—I cant swim—save the girls—dont blow up the engine—throw us a life preserver—back water—back pedal—put on brakes!

From Project Gutenberg

I am also the inventor of the back pedal braking and coasting bicycle hub, which has been in general use for many years.

From Project Gutenberg

Several times, when I wanted to slow up, I began to back-pedal, forgetting that I wasn't on my bicycle.

From Project Gutenberg