backpaddle
Paddle in reverse
To backpaddle is to paddle backward, reversing direction in a canoe or kayak.
Figuratively, it means to retreat from a position or statement—similar to backpedal: When pressed on the details, he started to backpaddle.
The literal paddling sense is straightforward; the figurative sense suggests awkward reversal under pressure.
Reverse one's position
- reverseTurn to opposite
- retractWithdraw something said
- recantFormally withdraw a statement
- disavowDeny any association
reconsider · qualify · hedge · retreat · backpedal · revise · amend · clarify
Lever for watercraft
- scullLightweight racing rowboat
- strokeSudden brain blood blockage
- kayakEnclosed single-person watercraft
- canoeSlender paddled vessel
backstroke · brace · rudder · stern · bow · watercraft · coxswain · shell
180-degree driving reversal
- about-faceFull directional reversal
- backtrackReverse one's position
- retreatSanctuary or withdrawal
- reverse courseChange to opposite direction
pivot · turnaround · retrace · fallback · regroup · reassess · recalculate · redirect
backtrack
Reverse one's position
disavow · reconsider · qualify · hedge · retreat · backpedal · revise · amend · clarify · soften
oar
Lever for watercraft
- scullLightweight racing rowboat
- strokeSudden brain blood blockage
- kayakEnclosed single-person watercraft
canoe · backstroke · brace · rudder · stern · bow · watercraft · coxswain · shell · sweep
u-turn
180-degree driving reversal
- about-faceFull directional reversal
- backtrackReverse one's position
- retreatSanctuary or withdrawal
reverse course · pivot · turnaround · retrace · fallback · regroup · reassess · recalculate · redirect
backpaddleaccelerate
Increase in velocity
advance · push ahead · propel · charge ahead · press on
backpaddledouble down
Strengthen one's stance
stand firm · commit · press forward · hold the line · dig in