"Turnback" is a word commonly spelled with two separate words, but it can also be spelled as one word. In IPA phonetic transcription, the word is pronounced /tɜːn.bæk/. The first syllable "turn" is pronounced with an open-mid back unrounded vowel sound /tɜːn/, while the second syllable "back" is pronounced with a short "a" /æ/ sound followed by the unvoiced velar plosive /k/. So, whether spelled as one word or two, "turnback" is pronounced the same way.
Turnback (noun) refers to the act of reversing one's course or direction, particularly in the context of traveling or moving. It involves changing one's path or trajectory, often with the intention of returning to the starting point or a previous location. In other words, a turnback implies a 180-degree change in movement, heading, or progress.
Additionally, turnback can also denote the action of retracing one's steps or going back to a previous state or condition. This can apply to various scenarios, including reverting to an earlier phase of development, resetting a system or device to its initial configuration, or reverting to a previous decision or strategy.
Furthermore, turnback can refer to a maneuver or tactic employed by aircraft, specifically when unable to complete a scheduled flight, and instead deciding to return to the airport of origin. This may occur due to technical problems, adverse weather conditions, or other safety concerns.
As a verb, "to turn back" is the corresponding action of turning around or going back. It can describe the act of changing direction, either physically or metaphorically, in order to return to a previous point or to revert to an earlier state.
Overall, turnback encompasses the concept of reversing one's movement, action, decision, or progress, often with the goal of going back to a previous location, state, or condition.
The word "turnback" is composed of two parts: "turn" and "back".
The term "turn" comes from the Old English word "tyrnan", which means to move, revolve, or change direction. It has cognates in other Germanic languages such as Dutch "tornen" and German "drehen".
The word "back" comes from the Middle English word "bak", which refers to the rear or the reverse side of something. It ultimately derives from the Old English word "bæc".
Therefore, "turnback" is a combination of these two words, implying the act of reversing the direction or going in the opposite direction.