aback

The word “aback” has 1 syllable: aback.

It's pronounced as /əˈbæk/.


What is synonym and antonym for aback?

In the thesaurus, “aback” has 3 synonyms and 4 antonyms.

Here are synonyms and antonyms for aback along with examples of usage in sentences.


Synonyms for aback

  • suddenly
  • surprised
  • unexpectedly

Antonyms for aback

  • leisurely
  • slowly
  • sluggishly
  • tardily

Meanings of aback

  • adverb
    1. Towards the back or rear; backwards.
    2. In the rear; a distance behind.
    3. By surprise; startled; dumbfounded. (see usage).
    4. Backward against the mast; said of the sails when pressed by the wind from the "wrong" (forward) side, or of a ship when its sails are set that way.
  • noun
    1. An abacus.

Example Sentences

  • The unexpected news took her completely aback, leaving her speechless.
  • The sudden change in weather caught the hikers aback, forcing them to seek shelter.
  • His bold and unconventional approach to problem-solving left his colleagues aback but intrigued.
  • The swift and decisive action of the leader left the opposing team aback and unprepared.
  • The professor's unorthodox teaching methods initially took the students aback, but they soon found it engaging.

On this page you'll find 7 synonyms, antonyms, or another words to aback, such as: leisurely, slowly, sluggishly, suddenly, surprised, tardily, unexpectedly.

Make sure to choose synonyms and antonyms that are appropriate for the context of the sentence.

Related Words

take by surprise

  • amaze
  • astonish
  • dumfound
  • shock
  • startle
  • stun
  • surprise
  • take aback

taken by surprise

  • amazed
  • astonished
  • beat
  • befall
  • catch up with
  • engulf
  • outdistance
  • outdo
  • outstrip
  • overwhelm
  • shocked
  • startle
  • startled
  • stunned
  • surprised
  • taken aback

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