setback
UK[ˈsetbæk]US[ˈsetbæk]
n
A problem that makes progress more difficult or success less likely.
n
A change from a better to a worse condition or position; a reversal.
Morpheme Breakdown
set
back
set
put
back
to the rear
Etymology
The word 'setback' is a transparent compound formed from two common English verbs. The literal sense, 'to set back,' meaning to place something in a rearward position or to hinder its forward movement, has been in use since the 16th century. By the late 17th century, this verbal action was nominalized to describe an event or circumstance that figuratively 'sets back' one's plans, progress, or condition. The logic of the word is direct and spatial: just as physically moving something backward reverses its progress, a metaphorical setback reverses or impedes forward momentum in any endeavor.
Analysis
Structure: set (put) + back (to the rear)
'set' is from Old English settian (to cause to sit, place, put), of Germanic origin. 'back' is from Old English bæc, referring to the rear part of the body or a position behind.
Examples
The project suffered a major setback when the main funding was withdrawn.
Losing their star player to injury was a serious setback for the team's championship hopes.
After a temporary setback in her recovery, she is now improving steadily.