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Showing results for setback. Search instead for wetbac.
Definitions

setback

[set-bak] / ˈsɛtˌbæk /
NOUN
disappointment
Synonyms
STRONGEST
blow defeat delay difficulty hindrance impediment misfortune obstacle reversal set-back slowdown stumbling block trouble
STRONG
about-face bath check comedown flip-flop hitch rebuff regress regression reverse upset
WEAK
backset drawing board holdup reversal of fortune whole new ballgame
Antonyms
STRONGEST
advance advantage aid assistance blessing expedition furtherance help
WEAK
achievement boon boost success

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

The country has sustained a serious economic setback from high energy prices and disruptions in shipping and travel.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 6, 2026

For the ballroom to suffer a setback in federal court, then, is for the whole world to be in sudden danger.

From Slate • Apr. 4, 2026

Novo suffered a setback in February when its experimental obesity shot, CagriSema, failed to outperform Lilly’s tirzepatide in a study.

From Barron's • Apr. 1, 2026

As you would expect after such a crushing setback, Bellamy was flat after the game.

From BBC • Mar. 26, 2026

She failed first grade by pretending to be stupid, but the setback didn't seem to bother her.

From "Me Talk Pretty One Day" by David Sedaris

From Roget's 21st Century Thesaurus, Third Edition Copyright © 2013 by the Philip Lief Group.