Definition of the word turn back

The phrase "turn back" is a command to reverse the direction of movement or action. Its origin can be traced back to Old English, where it was recorded as "gewedan," meaning "to turn around." The Old English word "gewedan" can be broken down into two parts: "ge-," a prefix meaning "back" or "again," and "wedan," meaning "to turn." This shows that the phrase "turn back" has been in use for over a thousand years. Over time, the word evolved through Middle English, where it became "turnen backen" or "turnen bakken," before settling on the more familiar "turn back" in Early Modern English. The meaning of the word has remained largely consistent, although in more modern usage, "turn back" is more commonly used in the context of retracing steps or reversing a decision, rather than simply reversing a physical motion. Overall, "turn back" is a clear and concise expression with a rich history, demonstrating the enduring power of language to communicate meaning over time.