roll back

To change something back to how it was before.

• We need to roll back the update.
• The store rolled back its prices.
• Can you roll the settings back to yesterday’s values?

How to use it: roll something back to something (We rolled the system back to its earlier version.)

Similar words: reverse, undo, revert

Common phrases: roll back changes, roll back prices

To arrange for something to happen later than planned.

• They may roll back the launch.
• Bad weather forced officials to roll back the event.
• Will they roll the date back again?

How to use it: roll something back (They rolled the launch back by two days.)

Similar words: postpone, delay, put off

Opposites: advance

Common phrases: roll back something, roll back launch

To move back from a place or position, especially during a fight.

• The troops began to roll back.
• Enemy forces rolled back after the attack.
• The army rolled back toward the river.

Similar words: retreat, withdraw, fall back

Opposites: advance

Common phrases: troops roll back, roll back north

If an aircraft engine does this, its power drops without the pilot asking for it.

• Both engines began to roll back.
• One engine rolled back during the climb.
• Why did the engine roll back without warning?

Common phrases: engines roll back, roll back unexpectedly