date back
A2 neutral inseparable intransitive
In simple words
To have been around since a very long time ago.
Literal meaning: To go back in date (time) to a specific point.
Meanings
1 A2 neutral
To have existed since a specific period in history; to originate at a particular time.
"This cathedral dates back to the thirteenth century and is one of the oldest in Europe."
""The tradition dates back to ancient Rome.""
Grammar: inseparable
2 A2 neutral
To have a history or connection going back to a particular time or event.
"Their friendship dates back to their first day of university."
Grammar: inseparable
Usage notes
Always followed by 'to' + a time expression (e.g. 'date back to the 12th century'). Very commonly used in academic writing, journalism, museum guides, and history. Fully established, standard English. Used worldwide.
Commonly used with
centuries ancient times the Middle Ages antiquity the Victorian era the 1800s
Forms
Base
date back
I/you/we/they
3rd person
dates back
he/she/it
Past simple
dated back
yesterday
Past participle
dated back
have + pp
-ing form
dating back
continuous
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