setback

[set-bak]

noun

1. a check to progress; a reverse or defeat.

   The new law was a setback.

2. Architecture.,  a recession of the upper part of a building from the building line, as to lighten the structure or to permit a desired amount of light and air to reach ground level at the foot of the building.

3. an act or instance of setting back.

   A nightly setback of your home thermostats can save a great deal of fuel.

4. Also a downward temperature adjustment of a thermostat, especially performed automatically, as by a timer.

Word History and Origins

Origin of setback¹

First recorded in 1665–75; noun use of verb phrase set back

Example Sentences

The setback is severe enough that Ford will likely flag potential implications to investors when it discloses quarterly financial results later this month, according to people familiar with the matter.

Read more on Wall Street Journal

The LDP’s calculation is that a more right-wing leader will help revive its political fortunes after major electoral setbacks cost its ruling coalition its majority in the Japanese parliament, known as the Diet.

Read more on Wall Street Journal

“This is an enormous setback for access,” says Linda Couch, senior vice president for policy at LeadingAge, the association of nonprofit providers of aging services.

Read more on Barron's

Through all the setbacks and obstacles that the band experienced during this period, Wilder says it never lost momentum for its music and vision.

Read more on Los Angeles Times

Environmentalists have said that the ban would be a setback for sustainability.

Read more on BBC

Related Words

• blow 
• defeat 
• delay 
• difficulty 
• hindrance 
• impediment 
• misfortune 
• obstacle 
• reversal 
• set-back 
• slowdown 
• stumbling block 
• trouble