Fallback: meaning, definitions and examples

🔙
Add to dictionary

fallback

 

[ ˈfɔːlbæk ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

technology

A system or plan that comes into operation in the event of something going wrong or that is there to be used if needed.

Synonyms

alternative, backup, reserve

Examples of usage

  • If the main power supply fails, the system has a fallback.
  • Our backup plan is our fallback in case of emergency.
Context #2 | Noun

computing

A secondary option or resource that is used when the primary one is not available or fails.

Synonyms

replacement, standby, substitute

Examples of usage

  • This software has a fallback in case of network issues.
  • The system automatically switches to a fallback when needed.

Translations

Translations of the word "fallback" in other languages:

🇵🇹 recuo

🇮🇳 वापसी

🇩🇪 Rückzug

🇮🇩 mundur

🇺🇦 відступ

🇵🇱 odwrót

🇯🇵 後退 (こうたい)

🇫🇷 repli

🇪🇸 retroceso

🇹🇷 geri çekilme

🇰🇷 후퇴 (hu-tae)

🇸🇦 تراجع

🇨🇿 ústup

🇸🇰 ústup

🇨🇳 退却 (tuìquè)

🇸🇮 umik

🇮🇸 afturför

🇰🇿 шегіну

🇬🇪 უკან დახევა

🇦🇿 geri çəkilmə

🇲🇽 retroceso

Etymology

The word 'fallback' originated in the mid-19th century, combining 'fall' and 'back'. It initially referred to a military strategy where troops retreat in an organized manner. Over time, the term evolved to signify a secondary plan or resource used when the primary one is not available. In computing, 'fallback' is commonly used to describe a backup or alternative option in case of system failure.

See also: downfall, fall, fallacy, fallen, falling, fallout.