back burner

noun

1. a condition of low priority or temporary deferment (usually used in the phrase on the back burner ):

   Put other issues on the back burner until after the election.

back burner

noun

1. on the back burner
   put aside for the time being, as a subject that is not of immediate concern but that may be activated later; postponed

Word History and Origins

Origin of back burner¹

First recorded in 1945–50; from the custom in cooking of placing pots not requiring immediate attention toward the rear of the stove