adv
aback
uh-BAK
adv
1
Used in the phrase "taken aback": caught by surprise, startled, or momentarily thrown off guard.
"She was taken aback by how blunt his comment was."
"I was a bit taken aback when he showed up uninvited."
How to Use Aback
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishAlmost always seen today in the fixed phrase "taken aback", meaning surprised or startled.
Memory tip
You rarely use "aback" on its own in modern English — learn it as part of the set phrase "taken aback".
Trace the full origin ↓
Common pairings
taken aback
rather taken aback
Word Forms
abacks plural
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She was taken _____ by how blunt his comment was.
Etymology
From Old English onbæc, literally "on back" — the sense of being pushed backward by surprise.