1. to pedal a bicycle backward
2. to retreat from or reverse a previous statement, position, or commitment
Usage: figurative

Examples

• She backpedals quickly to slow down her bike.
• The cyclist backpedals to engage the brake.
• The politician backpedals on his campaign promise.
• When confronted with evidence, he backpedals from his earlier claim.
• The company backpedals on the controversial policy change.
• She backpedals after realizing her mistake.
• The spokesperson backpedals during the press conference.