climb-down

American  

[klahym-doun] / ˈklaɪmˌdaʊn /

noun

1. a retreat, as from an indefensible opinion or position.

---

climb down British  

verb

1. to descend

2. (often foll by from) to retreat (from an opinion, position, etc)

---

noun

1. a retreat from an opinion, etc

Etymology

Origin of climb-down

First recorded in 1885–90; noun use of verb phrase climb down

Example Sentences

What he didn’t mention, though, was that China’s retaliation against the U.S. with triple-digit tariffs eventually led Washington to a climb-down as markets revolted.

From Barron's • Jan. 20, 2026

Privately, though, they said that was exactly the reason for the climb-down, and Trump himself conceded that markets were getting a little too “yippy” for his taste.

From Slate • Apr. 12, 2025

"I think that is the cover to call it off ... a fig leaf to make it look like it is not a climb-down," he said.

From Reuters • Oct. 23, 2021

Ireland is ready to sign up to a proposed global agreement for a minimum tax on companies, a climb-down that removes one hurdle to an unprecedented deal that would reshape the landscape for multinationals.

From Washington Post • Oct. 7, 2021

Rather a climb-down from Senior to Junior, isn’t it?

From The Madcap of the School by Salmon, Balliol

Related Words

• disembark
• get off