set-back

[ set-bak ]

noun

1. Surveying. the interval by which a chain or tape exceeds the length being measured.
2. setback ( def 4 ).

set back

verb

1. to hinder; impede
2. informal.
   to cost (a person) a specified amount

noun

1. anything that serves to hinder or impede
2. a recession in the upper part of a high building, esp one that increases the daylight at lower levels
3. Also calledoffsetsetoff a steplike shelf where a wall is reduced in thickness

Word History and Origins

Origin of set-back¹

Special use of setback

Example Sentences

His run to the last 32 in Miami has taken him to 59th in the live rankings before this injury set-back.

From BBC

This set-back took place while the Zephyr was testing the potential for such aircraft on behalf of the US Army.

From BBC

It remains to be seen what this set-back means for the mine's operators and their plans for restoration work, which will now be the subject of increased scrutiny.

From BBC

Murray said he was "not able to serve for essentially 10 days" following that latest set-back and, when asked whether he would appear again at Wimbledon, added it would depend on his physical condition.

From BBC

I expected the Clarets to kick on after beating the Toffees but to follow up a huge win like that by going to the bottom side and losing is a big set-back.

From BBC