Skip to definition.
Get the FREE one-click dictionary software for Windows.
NEW iPhone Audio English dictionary


Noun: setback  'set`bak
  1. An unfortunate happening that hinders or impedes; something that is thwarting or frustrating
    - reverse, reversal, blow, black eye
Noun: set-back
  1. Structure where a wall or building narrows abruptly
    - setoff, offset
Verb: set back  set bak
  1. Hold back to a later time
    "let's set back the exam"
    - postpone, prorogue, hold over, put over, table [N. Amer], shelve, defer, remit, put off
     
  2. Slow down the progress of; hinder
     
  3. Cost a certain amount
    - knock back, put back

Derived forms: sets back, set-backs, set back, setbacks, setting back

See also: set

Type of: be, construction, cost, delay, happening, hinder, impede, natural event, occurrence, occurrent, structure

Encyclopedia: Setback

Nearest

set
Set
set ablaze
set about
set afire
set aflame
set ahead
set apart
set ashore
set aside
set back
set chisel
set decoration
set down
set forth
set free
set gun
set in
set in motion
set in stone
set off