Used other than figuratively or idiomatically: see step, back. / (idiomatic) To stop what one is doing and evaluate the current situation.

(idiomatic) A reversion to a former state or situation.

present participle of step back

simple past tense and past participle of step back

Third-person singular simple present indicative form of step back

(rail transport) a system to decrease turnaround time at terminal stations where a second driver enters the rear cab of an arriving train and departs driving the train from that end while the first driver is walking the length of the platform ready to take over the subsequent departure.

(figuratively) To withdraw temporarily from a situation in order to evaluate it; to cease one's course of action and take a moment to reflect on it; to try and gain some perspective.

(idiomatic) A situation in which progress is more than offset by adverse developments.