Setback

Pronunciation

• IPA: /ˈsÉ›tbæk/

Origin

From set + back

Full definition of setback

Noun

1. An obstacle, delay, or disadvantage.After some initial setbacks, the expedition went safely on its way.
2. (US) The required distance between a structure and a road.
3. (architecture) A step-like recession in a wall.Setbacks were initially used for structural reasons, but now are often mandated by land use codes.
4. (possibly archaic) A backset; a countercurrent; an eddy.
5. A backset; a check; a repulse; a relapse.

Anagrams

• backest