4 definitions
for setback
From The Collaborative International Dictionary of English v.0.48 :
Setback \Set"back`\ (s[e^]t"b[a^]k`), n.
1. (Arch.) Offset, n., 4.
[1913 Webster]
2. A backset; a countercurrent; an eddy. [U. S.]
[1913 Webster]
3. A reversal of progress in an endeavor; a reverse; a
backset; a check; a repulse; a relapse. [Colloq. U.S.]
[1913 Webster]
From WordNet (r) 2.0 :
set-back
n : structure where a wall or building narrows abruptly [syn: setoff,
offset]
From WordNet (r) 2.0 :
setback
n : an unfortunate happening that hinders of impedes; something
that is thwarting or frustrating [syn: reverse, reversal,
blow, black eye]
From Moby Thesaurus II by Grady Ward, 1.0 :
131 Moby Thesaurus words for "setback":
arrest, arrestation, arrestment, atavism, backset, backsliding,
backward deviation, backward motion, backward step, bafflement,
balk, betrayed hope, blasted expectation, blighted hope, blockage,
blocking, blow, buffet, check, checkmate, clogging, closing up,
closure, comedown, confusion, constriction, cramp,
cruel disappointment, dash, dashed hope, deceleration, defeat,
delay, descent, detainment, detention, disappointment,
discomfiture, disillusionment, dissatisfaction, down, drag,
ease-off, ease-up, failure, fallen countenance, falling back,
fiasco, fixation, fizzle, flagging, foil, foiling, foot-dragging,
forlorn hope, frustration, hampering, hindering, hindrance,
holdback, holdup, hope deferred, impediment, inhibition,
interference, interruption, lag, lapse, let, letdown, letup,
minus acceleration, mirage, negativism, nuisance value, obstacle,
obstruction, obstructionism, occlusion, opposition, reaction,
rebuff, recession, recidivation, recidivism, recrudescence,
recurrence, reentry, refluence, reflux, regress, regression,
relapse, renewal, repression, repulse, resistance, restraint,
restriction, retardation, retardment, retroaction, retrocession,
retroflexion, retrogradation, retrogression, retrusion, return,
reversal, reverse, reverse of fortune, reversion, rollback, rout,
severe check, slack-up, slackening, slowdown, slowing,
slowing down, slowup, sore disappointment, squeeze, sternway,
stranglehold, stricture, stumbling block, suppression,
tantalization, tease, throwback