# back up

idiom

Source: https://englishreference.com/idiom/back-up
Updated: 2026-08-10

## Meaning

To move backwards, especially for a vehicle to do so.

## Examples

- Please back up a little; you're too close.
- The truck couldn't turn around, so the driver had to back up the narrow street.
- With no room to turn in the cramped courtyard, she shifted into reverse and began to back up slowly, mirrors folded.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.