How Do You Spell BACKDOWN?

Pronunciation: [bˈakda͡ʊn] (IPA)

The word "backdown" is spelled with a "k" instead of a "c" for the "k" sound in order to differentiate it from a similar word "backbone" which is spelled with a "c" for the "k" sound. The IPA phonetic transcription of "backdown" is /ˈbæk.daʊn/, where the dot under the "k" indicates that it is pronounced as a voiceless velar plosive. This word is commonly used to describe a retreat or a withdrawal from a position, especially in the context of negotiations or conflicts.

BACKDOWN Meaning and Definition

1. Backdown is a noun that refers to the act of withdrawing or retreating from a previously held position, series of actions, or conflict due to various reasons such as fear, pressure, or realization of the impracticality of one's actions. It involves yielding or giving in to avoid confrontation, disapproval, or adverse consequences.

   In a literal sense, backdown can also denote physical movement in reverse or stepping backwards. However, in a figurative sense, it pertains to a change in attitude or stance, often associated with a loss of confidence or determination. This term commonly arises in contexts such as negotiations, debates, or conflicts between individuals, groups, or nations as a recognition of the need to compromise or abandon an initial plan or demand.

   Backdown can be perceived as a strategic decision to diffuse tension, promote harmony, or salvage relationships. It may be perceived positively when it signifies maturity, adaptability, or empathy towards the concerns of others, acknowledging the merit in alternative viewpoints. Conversely, it may also be viewed negatively, signifying weakness, indecisiveness, or a lack of conviction.

   Overall, backdown encapsulates the act or process of retracting a position or relinquishing a course of action, often associated with the abandoning of one's previously held principles, goals, or demands in response to external factors or internal reflections.

Common Misspellings for BACKDOWN

• vackdown
• nackdown
• hackdown
• gackdown
• bzckdown
• bsckdown
• bwckdown
• bqckdown
• baxkdown
• bavkdown
• bafkdown
• badkdown
• bacjdown
• bacmdown
• bacldown
• bacodown
• bacidown
• backsown
• backxown

Etymology of BACKDOWN

The word "backdown" is a compound word comprising of two parts: "back" and "down".

1. "Back": This word is derived from the Old English word "bæc", which traces its roots back to the Proto-Germanic word "bakam". It refers to the rear side or the opposite side of something. This sense of "going back" or "retreating" is also derived from "back".

2. "Down": This word comes from the Old English word "dūn", which means "a hill" or "a small hill". Over time, it also acquired the sense of lowering or moving in a downward direction.

Combining these two elements, "back" and "down", the word "backdown" was formed to describe the act of withdrawing, retreating, or reversing one's position.

Similar spelling words for BACKDOWN

• back down,
• Bagdon.

Plural form of BACKDOWN is BACKDOWNS