The spelling of the word "start back" can be confusing phonetically. The first part of the word, "start," is pronounced with the IPA symbol /stɑrt/. The second part, "back," is pronounced with the IPA symbol /bæk/. When combined, the two words are pronounced as /stɑrt bæk/. The spelling of "start back" is the same as the pronunciation, but it may be helpful to remember that the word "back" is pronounced with the short "a" sound, rather than the long "a" sound as it is spelled.
The phrase "start back" refers to the act of suddenly moving or recoiling backwards in response to a sudden shock, surprise, fear, or to avoid danger. It represents a rapid and involuntary backward movement, often initiating from a previously stationary or forward position.
When someone starts back, they may display physical signs of alarm or surprise, such as jerking their body, widening their eyes, or gasping audibly. This reflexive action can be triggered by various stimuli, including unexpected loud noises, sudden appearances, or frightening situations. For instance, one may start back when a car unexpectedly honks its horn or when encountered by a wild animal while hiking in the forest.
The start back response can also be figurative, denoting an emotional or mental reaction rather than a physical one. In this context, it refers to a sudden and severe emotional, psychological, or cognitive impact that causes a person to retreat or pull away, often temporarily. This can occur when someone encounters a traumatic memory, experiences an overwhelming realization, or faces an intense fear or phobia.
Overall, "start back" describes a reflexive and instinctive retreat or recoil, either physically or emotionally, as an immediate response to a sudden stimulus or to protect oneself from harm.
The phrase "start back" can be analyzed as a combination of two words.
The word "start" originated in the late 14th century from the Old English word "styrtan", which meant "jump up, leap up, spring". It later evolved to signify "move suddenly or swiftly", and eventually took on the meaning of "begin, commence".
The word "back" has a much older origin, dating back to the Old English word "bæc", meaning "the rear or hind part". It is related to the Proto-Germanic word "bakam" and the Gothic word "baka". Over time, "back" also acquired the metaphorical sense of "returning, retreating, going in reverse".
When combined, the phrase "start back" is usually used to mean "begin moving in the opposite direction, retreat, or recoil".