setback Meaning, Definition & Usage

  1. noun an unfortunate happening that hinders or impedes; something that is thwarting or frustrating
    blow; reverse; reversal; black eye.

WordNet


Set"back` noun
Definitions
  1. (Arch.) Offset, n., 4.
  2. A backset; a countercurrent; an eddy. U. S.
  3. A backset; a check; a repulse; a reverse; a relapse. Colloq. U.S.

Webster 1913