aback

[ uh-bak ]

adverb

1. toward the back.
2. Nautical. so that the wind presses against the forward side of the sail or sails.

adjective

, Nautical.

1. (of a sail) positioned so that the wind presses against the forward side.
2. (of a yard) positioned so that its sail is laid aback.

aback

/ əˈbæk /

adverb

1. taken aback
   1. startled or disconcerted
   2. nautical (of a vessel or sail) having the wind against the forward side so as to prevent forward motion
2. rare.
   towards the back; backwards

Word History and Origins

Origin of aback¹

First recorded before 1000; Middle English abak, Old English on bæc “to the rear”; a- ¹, on, back ¹

Word History and Origins

Origin of aback¹

Old English on bæc to the back

Idioms and Phrases

Idioms

1. taken aback, surprised and disconcerted:

   I was taken aback by his harsh criticism.

More idioms and phrases containing aback

see take aback .

Example Sentences

Nelson Dean from London was also taken aback by the high cost of formula.

From BBC

But when one man from Cardiff combined his love for Lego with his interests in architecture and even sport, he was taken aback to be met with widespread interest in his hobby.

From BBC

Former Indian diplomats say they are taken aback by what has been described as “megaphone diplomacy” by Yunus - trying to discuss contentious bilateral issues through the media.

From BBC

A few months ago, I was taken aback by an article in the New York Times’ Vows section.

From Los Angeles Times

In a November 2023 interview, the former president seemed taken aback by the idea that Swift might not be playing at liberal beliefs for the cameras.

From Salon

Related Words

• surprised