Phrases starting with the letter: A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z
Previous word: abacist
Next word: abacus
Definition of: aback
(ə·bak′) adverb
So as to be pressed backward, as sails; backward; aloof.
— taken aback
1. Naut. Caught by a sudden change of wind so as to reverse the sails.
2. Disconcerted, as by a sudden check. [ OE on bæc to or on the back]
Comment about this word, ask questions, or add new information about this topic: