Switchback

B2 8+

Pronunciation: /swɪtʃ.bæk/

Definitions of switchback

noun a road, path, or section of a railway with a series of sharp bends or turns in alternating directions

Example Sentences

A1 The hiking trail had a steep switchback that made it easier to climb.

A2 The road up the mountain was full of switchbacks, making the drive slow and winding.

B1 The switchback on the ski slope was challenging for beginners to navigate.

B2 The switchback on the cycling route provided a thrilling descent for experienced riders.

C1 The switchback on the race track required precision driving to navigate at high speeds.

C2 The switchback on the mountain pass offered stunning views of the valley below.

verb to follow a zigzag path, especially up a steep incline

Example Sentences

A1 I switchbacked between two different TV channels.

A2 She switchbacked her route to avoid traffic.

B1 The hiker switchbacked up the steep mountain trail.

B2 The driver switchbacked down the winding road with ease.

C1 The politician switchbacked on his previous statements, causing confusion.

C2 The expert skier switchbacked effortlessly down the challenging slope.

Examples of switchback in a Sentence

formal The hikers carefully navigated the steep switchback trail up the mountain.

informal We took the switchback route to avoid the steep climb.

slang Let's hit up the switchback trail for a more chill hike.

figurative His thoughts went through a switchback of emotions as he tried to make a decision.

Grammatical Forms of switchback

past tense

switchbacked

plural

switchbacks

comparative

more switchback

superlative

most switchback

present tense

switchback

future tense

will switchback

perfect tense

have switchbacked

continuous tense

is switchbacking

singular

switchback

positive degree

switchback

infinitive

to switchback

gerund

switchbacking

participle

switchbacked

Origin and Evolution of switchback

First Known Use: 1830 year
Language of Origin: English
Story behind the word: The word 'switchback' originated from the practice of switching the direction of a road or path to create a zigzag pattern in order to navigate steep terrain.
Evolution of the word: Originally used in the context of road construction, 'switchback' later came to be used in reference to a type of roller coaster with sharp turns and sudden changes in direction. It has since been adapted to describe any winding or zigzagging path or route.