Standard Lemma guide

backoff

noun · 2 senses · updated from the 2026-07-25 local source snapshot

Definitions and examples are grouped by meaning. Pronunciation, history, word forms, translations, descendants, synonyms, antonyms, derived terms, and related words appear whenever the source provides them.

Sound

Pronunciation

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No pronunciation record was provided for this word.

1

noun

Meaning 1

The situation where an algorithm or process refrains from taking an action it would otherwise have taken.

Definition source: English Wiktionary via Wiktextract

Usage: countable, uncountable

Topics: computing, engineering, mathematics, natural-sciences, physical-sciences, sciences

Examples

  • a backoff strategy to avoid collisions

Meaning relationships

Synonyms: none provided

Antonyms: none provided

2

noun

Meaning 2

The situation where an incoming wave passes from shallower water to a deeper area, making the wave less steep and potentially unsurfable.

Definition source: English Wiktionary via Wiktextract

Usage: countable, uncountable

Topics: hobbies, lifestyle, sports, surfing

No example sentence was provided for this meaning.

Meaning relationships

Synonyms: none provided

Antonyms: none provided

History

Etymology

Deverbal from back off.