What does backpedal mean?
Backpedal is a verb and noun meaning to move backward, especially by pushing bicycle pedals in reverse, and, figuratively, to retreat from a position or reverse a decision. The literal sense is relatively uncommon, while the figurative sense is much more frequent in everyday English and journalism. Saying that someone has “backpedaled” often suggests that criticism, political pressure, or unexpected opposition has forced a change of course. It can be used in business, politics, sport, and ordinary conversation, and usually carries a mildly negative or skeptical tone. The word is also used as a noun for the backward movement itself. Although backpedal can describe a legitimate reversal, its frequent association with retreat and inconsistency means it is often used to imply a lack of resolve or an attempt to avoid responsibility for an earlier commitment.
To move a bicycle or similar vehicle backward by pushing the pedals backward.
"He backpedaled and steadied the bicycle at the top of the slope."
This is the literal and relatively uncommon sense.
To reverse one's position, decision, or commitment, especially after criticism or pressure.
"The company backpedaled on its earlier announcement."
The figurative sense is informal and often implies a retreat prompted by opposition or changed circumstances.
The act of moving backward, especially by pushing bicycle pedals backward, or of reversing one's position or decision.
"The policy reversal was seen as a political backpedal."
The figurative noun use often has a mildly critical connotation.
The plural is used for separate instances of backward movement or for figurative reversals.
"The spokesperson denied that the policy changes were political backpedals."
From turning bicycle pedals backward to reversing a public position, backpedal captures the modern art of retreating from a stance.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does backpedal come from?
The compound backpedal was formed in English during the 19th century from back and pedal, originally referring to turning a bicycle's pedals backward. Pedal comes through French pédale from Latin pedalis, an adjective meaning “of the foot,” ultimately derived from Latin pes, pedis, “foot.” Several English words, including pedestrian and pedicure, continue the same Latin root concerning the foot.
Related word forms
How backpedal is actually used
The figurative use is informal and often mildly critical, implying that a reversal is prompted by criticism, pressure, or inconvenience rather than a considered change of policy.
Easily confused with backpedal
A pedal is a lever or part of a mechanism operated with the foot, whereas backpedal means specifically to move or push the pedals backward.