walk back the cat

present singular third person walks back the cat · participle present walking back the cat · participle past walked back the cat · past walked back the cat · alternative walk the cat back

1. espionageTo reconstruct the sequence of events in order to identify the point of failure in an operation and ascertain responsibility.

   Bernhard had been called back to headquarters for a conference, a general review of current operations with special attention to methods and sources, connecting dots while they walked back the cat, a dispirited and dispiriting exercise.

   2007, Ward Just, Forgetfulness, page 110

2. diplomacyTo back down; to adopt a position where one is more willing to compromise.