Climbdown
/ˈklaɪm.daʊn/noun
A retreat from a position or claim, especially a reluctant concession.
Did you know?Unlike spooky words with ancient roots, climbdown is a modern English compound that became a political and social metaphor for backing down under pressure.
Etymological Timeline
Old English
English
climban
“to climb, ascend, or rise by effort”
Middle English
English
climben
“to climb upward”
19th Century
English
climb down
“to descend by climbing down; later, to retreat from a position”
20th Century
English
climbdown
“a retreat, concession, or withdrawal from a stance”
Modern English
English
climbdown
“a reluctant reversal of position or admission of defeat”