setback

American  

[set-bak] / ˈsɛtˌbæk /

noun

1. a check to progress; a reverse or defeat.

   The new law was a setback.

2. Architecture. a recession of the upper part of a building from the building line, as to lighten the structure or to permit a desired amount of light and air to reach ground level at the foot of the building.

3. an act or instance of setting back.

   A nightly setback of your home thermostats can save a great deal of fuel.

4. Also a downward temperature adjustment of a thermostat, especially performed automatically, as by a timer.

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Etymology

Origin of setback

First recorded in 1665–75; noun use of verb phrase set back

Example Sentences

Now he is warning of another setback in one of its most critical markets.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 1, 2026

Namibia said Monday it had rejected a request for billionaire Elon Musk's Starlink to operate its satellite internet services in the country, dealing the company a second setback in southern Africa.

From Barron's • Mar. 23, 2026

Hodgkinson still managed to salvage silverware from her challenging 2025 by making the world podium in Tokyo six months ago and is ultimately appreciative of the perspective that setback has given her.

From BBC • Mar. 22, 2026

Mira Costa’s lone setback came Feb. 21 against Corona del Mar in the Redondo Classic final — a loss the Mustangs avenged four days later.

From Los Angeles Times • Mar. 21, 2026

His death was a severe setback to the government, and the effectiveness and aggressiveness of the Crown team diminished from that point on.

From "Long Walk to Freedom" by Nelson Mandela

Related Words

• blow
• defeat
• delay
• difficulty
• hindrance
• impediment
• misfortune
• obstacle
• reversal
• set-back
• slowdown
• stumbling block
• trouble