setback
Americannoun
-
a check to progress; a reverse or defeat.
The new law was a setback.
-
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.
-
an act or instance of setting back.
A nightly setback of your home thermostats can save a great deal of fuel.
-
Also a downward temperature adjustment of a thermostat, especially performed automatically, as by a timer.
Etymology
Origin of setback
First recorded in 1665–75; noun use of verb phrase set back
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
Morris is still returning from an anterior cruciate ligament injury that has ruled her out for nine months, while Layzell has had multiple setbacks since impressing in a 2-0 win over Barcelona in October 2024.
From BBC
"This is a setback, but the movement to defend people and the planet has always faced setbacks and resistance, and Energy Transfer will fail in its goal of silencing its critics."
From Barron's
"The players from the 2003 squad performed under incredible pressure, but had numerous setbacks and numerous tough losses," he said.
From BBC
I liked the way Arsenal responded to their setback against Wolves by battering Spurs.
From BBC
Health insurance recently endured a disappointing announcement from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services on funding for insurers, but the stocks look like they have already reflected that setback.
From Barron's
Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023
Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.
