set back meaning and definition

SET BACK verb

Definition of set back (verb)

1. hold back to a later time
   • "let's postpone the exam"
   • synonyms: defer, hold over, postpone, prorogue, put off, put over, remit, shelve, table
2. slow down the progress of; hinder
   • "His late start set him back"
3. cost a certain amount
   • "My daughter's wedding set me back $20,000"
   • synonyms: knock back, put back