Added 9 October 2026
setback
/ˈsɛtbæk/ noun
noun Definition from Wiktionary (CC BY-SA). Pronunciation from Wiktionary, via Kaikki.org. More about setback at Wordnik → Where our words come from →
-
An obstacle, delay, disadvantage, or blow (an adverse event which slows down, or prevents progress towards a desired outcome).
After some initial setbacks, the expedition went safely on its way.
- Any adverse event, defeat, or impediment of progress.
- The required distance between a structure and a road.
Origin
Deverbal from set back. Compare drawback.
From Wiktionary, via Kaikki.org (CC BY-SA)