back′-ped`al(v.i.)-ped•aled, -ped•al•ing; -ped•alled, -ped•al•ling.

1. to retard the forward motion of a bicycle by pressing backward on the pedal.

2. to retreat from or reverse one's previous stand on a matter.

3. to make quick steps backward, as in retreating against a boxing opponent.

   Category: Sport

Origin of back-pedal:

1895–1900