get back

verb

got back; got back or gotten back; getting back; gets back
Synonyms of get backnext

intransitive verb

1
: to come or go again to a person, place, or condition : return, revert
getting back to the main topic of the lecture
2
: to gain revenge : retaliate
—usually used with at

transitive verb

: to regain possession of : recover

Synonyms of get back

Relevance
See All Synonyms & Antonyms in Thesaurus

Examples of get back in a Sentence

the distraught owner cried that she would do anything to get back her lost dog
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
The Guardians are getting back home after stealing home-field advantage away from the Rays. — Outkick, FOXNews.com, 15 Oct. 2026 Known for its innovative and meticulously designed products, Apple is spending its 50th year getting back to its roots. — Time Staff, Time, 15 Oct. 2026 The motivation to hit the road, present the music and see the faces of the fans is addictive, but after days of long bus rides and transitory environs, there’s a buzz that comes from getting back to the family. — Tom Roland, Billboard, 14 Oct. 2026 The Devils, hoping to get back to the playoffs after finishing seventh in the division last year, acquired Rodrigues in a trade and signed Mantha — a former Red Wing — in free agency to boost their third line. — CBS News, 14 Oct. 2026 See All Example Sentences for get back

Word History

First Known Use

1587, in the meaning defined at transitive sense

Time Traveler
The first known use of get back was in 1587

Rhymes for get back

See All Rhymes for get back

Browse Nearby Words

get away with murder
get back
get back at (someone)
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Get back.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/get%20back. Accessed 19 Oct. 2026.

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Kids Definition

get back

verb
1
: to return to a person, place, or condition
getting back to our first topic
2
: to get revenge
get back at him for the insult
3
: to regain possession of
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