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View synonyms for setback

setback

[ set-bak ]

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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Word History and Origins

Origin of setback1

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

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