aback

adverb

ə-ˈbak How to pronounce aback (audio)
Definition of abacknext
as in suddenly
without warning completely taken aback by the neighbors' announcement that they were moving

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms

Example Sentences

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.
Recent Examples of aback Rather than getting tied to the likes of a large heavy-duty Mercedes Zetros or MAN TGS cab, the new Bliss 8 is designed to ride aback smaller, nimbler 4x4 chassis like the Toyota Land Cruiser or Ford F-Series. — New Atlas, 14 Nov. 2025 Not all of them will necessarily fall under the legislation, and any can challenge their inclusion, but the breadth of platforms Inman Grant was considering took some Australians aback and confused others. — Belinda Luscombe, Time, 8 Oct. 2025 Related Stories Saarinen has been voicing similar concerns for years – but the latest development still took him aback. — Marta Balaga, Variety, 18 Sep. 2025 Rodgers took some players aback by his just-one-of-the-guys approach. — Mike Jones, New York Times, 18 Aug. 2025 See All Example Sentences for aback
Recent Examples of Synonyms for aback
  1. suddenly
  2. unexpectedly
Adverb
  • The Cyclops, Polyphemus, renders the strength of Odysseus’ crew insufficient, much as expertise that took a company decades to develop can suddenly be commoditized.
    — Jeff DeGraff, Fortune, 17 Oct. 2026
  • And with Large opening this October, there is suddenly a very good reason to ride line 9 all the way to the end.
    — Alessia Armenise, Condé Nast Traveler, 17 Oct. 2026
Definition of suddenly
Adverb
  • Tommy Lee Jones plays Lee’s estranged father, who walks back into Lee’s life unexpectedly.
    — Kathryn VanArendonk, Vulture, 14 Oct. 2026
  • April 20 – May 20 Something involving money or resources could shift unexpectedly this morning.
    — Tarot.com, Sun Sentinel, 14 Oct. 2026
Definition of unexpectedly

Phrases Containing aback

Browse Nearby Words

aahs
aback
abaft
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Cite this Entry

“Aback.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/aback. Accessed 20 Oct. 2026.

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