ENGLISH
REFERENCE

put the clock back

idiom
Meaning

To change the time in a time zone to an earlier time, e.g. for the end of daylight saving time.


Examples
SIMPLE

Remember to put the clock back one hour tonight.

CONTEXTUAL

We put the clock back on Sunday morning because daylight saving time ended.

COMPLEX

As autumn arrives and the days grow shorter, the government mandates that we put the clock back to align our schedules with the changing sunlight.

Anchors to
Related idioms8entries
  1. 01

    all the way to Egery and back

    The long way; a roundabout route; a long distance to travel.

  2. 02

    around the clock

    Alternative form of around-the-clock.

  3. 03

    back down

    To take a less aggressive position in a conflict than one previously had, or has planned to have.

  4. 04

    back forty

    The most remote or inaccessible part of any place.

  5. 05

    back gammon player

    A person, chiefly a homosexual, who has anal sex.

  6. 06

    back in the game

    Having recovered from a disadvantageous position.

  7. 07

    back into

    To advance to the post-season as a result of another team's loss, especially where one's own team has also lost.

  8. 08

    back of one's hand

    A display of disrespect or scorn.

Last updated April 17, 2026