Definition

To follow or go back over a path or route that has already been taken.

Example

After realizing he was lost, he decided to retrace his steps to find his way back.

Tense Forms

Conversation

I think I left my keys at the café we visited earlier.

Have you tried to retrace your steps back there?

Not yet, but I should definitely do that.

Yeah, it's worth a shot — they might still have them.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Retrace → It is formed from "re-" (meaning again) and "tractus" (from the verb "tractare", meaning to pull or draw). The word means to draw back over a path again, as in going back over the same route.

Memory Tip

Think of going 'back' ('re-') over a path that you have 'pulled' or 'drawn' ('tractus') before — that's why retrace means to go back over a route.

Visually Confused Words