backtracking
UK[ˈbæktrækɪŋ]US[ˈbækˌtrækɪŋ]
n
A problem-solving algorithm that involves trying out different possibilities and abandoning those that fail to meet the required conditions, returning to a previous point to try a different path.
n
The action of retracing one's steps along a path already traveled.
Morpheme Breakdown
back
track
ing
back
reverse direction
track
path
ing
noun suffix/gerund
Etymology
The term 'backtracking' is a modern English compound, primarily emerging in the 20th century within the contexts of computing and outdoor pursuits. It literally describes the act of moving backward along a track or path one has already made. The core logic is built from the Germanic 'back', implying reversal, and the French-derived 'track', denoting a course or trail. This concrete meaning was later abstracted in computer science to describe an algorithmic process that metaphorically "retraces its steps" by undoing recent decisions when a solution path proves incorrect, systematically exploring alternative branches in a search space.
Analysis
Structure: back (reverse direction) + track (path) + ing (noun suffix/gerund)
- back: From Old English 'bæc', meaning the rear part or to move backwards. In this compound, it functions as an adverb meaning "in reverse" or "to the rear."
- track: From Middle French 'trac', meaning a path or line of footprints. In this compound, it functions as a noun meaning "path" or "course."
- ing: A suffix from Old English '-ung', '-ing', used to form nouns from verbs, indicating an action or its result.
Examples
The hikers used backtracking to find their way back to the main trail after losing their bearings.
The puzzle was solved efficiently using a recursive backtracking algorithm.
His explanation involved a lot of backtracking on his earlier statements.