pullback

[ pool-bak ]

noun

1. the act of pulling back, especially a retreat or a strategic withdrawal of troops; pullout.
2. that which pulls something back or impedes its forward movement.
3. Machinery. a device for pulling a moving part to its original position.

Word History and Origins

Origin of pullback¹

First recorded in 1585–95; noun use of verb phrase pull back

Example Sentences

We should definitely see a pullback, but the magnitude is probably lesser.

From Fortune

While growth stocks are flying again, there’s been a pullback in gold and Treasurys.

From Fortune

If that wasn’t the case, the recent pullback in stocks would be much more severe, he said.

From Fortune

While it won’t be business as usual anytime soon, cuts, pullbacks and cancellations to media spending over the next three months won’t be as drastic as they have been.

From Digiday

That could lead to a pullback in consumer and business spending and then another round of layoffs, compounding problems further.

From Washington Post

Even a modest hit from sanctions or pullback by foreign investors will only add to that downward spiral.

From The Daily Beast

Missile strikes from warplanes and helicopter gunships and tank shelling made the pullback necessary, he says.

From The Daily Beast

Commanders insist the move is a tactical pullback, but fighters are unnerved as the government intensifies its Aleppo offensive.

From The Daily Beast

Others foresaw bloodshed between supporters of rival political parties, and cast a wary eye to a pullback of police.

From The Daily Beast

Related Words

• evacuation
• pullout
• withdrawal