roll back

present singular third person rolls back · participle present rolling back · participle past rolled back · past rolled back

1. transitiveTo return to a prior state.

   We had to roll back the changes to the database because of an unforeseen error.

   Synonyms: restore, restitute, deconvert, reconvert, rehabilitate, restitute, restore, revert

2. transitiveTo postpone.

   NASA will roll back the shuttle launch due to bad weather.

   Synonyms: delay, retard, adjourn, avert, defer, delay, dilly-dally, draw out

3. intransitiveaeronauticsTo reduce thrust without having been commanded to do so.

   1 more example

   In the previous tests, it was suspected that the volume of fuel contained in pipework had effects, both in the time taken for the restriction to affect engine performance and the nature of the fuel flow fluctuations after the engine had rolled back. Therefore, it was decided that the restriction would be simulated with the use of an orifice plate which could be introduced adjacent to the component being investigated.

   2010 February 9, Air Accidents Investigation Branch, “1.16.4.2 Full-scale engine testing (L12)”, in Report on the accident to Boeing 777-236ER, G-YMMM, at London Heathrow Airport on 17 January 2008, archived from the original on 12 Apr 2022, page 92

4. intransitiveTo retreat.

   Synonyms: fall back, withdraw, back away, back down, balk, beat a retreat, bug out, crawfish