Pronunciation IPA (key): /ˈsɛtbæk/ Audio (US)(file) Noun Singular setback Plural setbacks A setback is an obstacle or delay in the progression of something. (US) A setback is the distance required between a structure and a road. (architecture) A setback is a step-like recession in a wall.Wikiwand - on Seamless Wikipedia browsing. On steroids.Remove ads