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View synonyms for back burner

back burner

noun

  1. a condition of low priority or temporary deferment (usually used in the phrase on the back burner ):

    Put other issues on the back burner until after the election.



back burner

noun

  1. on the back burner
    on the back burner put aside for the time being, as a subject that is not of immediate concern but that may be activated later; postponed


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Word History and Origins

Origin of back burner1

First recorded in 1945–50; from the custom in cooking of placing pots not requiring immediate attention toward the rear of the stove

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Example Sentences

Denzel Washington in Philadelphia: “There was something like that [with Philadelphia] where I was on the back-burner.”

And while his Town & Country photo shoot nearly broke the Internet, modeling is on the back burner: “Acting is my first priority.”

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inveterate

[in-vet-er-it ]

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