1 B1 neutral
To fasten something back into position by rotating it or using screws.
"Once you've changed the filter, screw the cap back on tightly to prevent leaks."
separable
screw back
B2 neutral separable transitive
To reattach or replace something by screwing it back into its original position.
In plain English
To put something back by turning or screwing it into place, the way it was before.
What does "screw back" mean?
2 meanings, ordered from most common to least. Color-coded by CEFR level.
2 C1 neutral
In billiards or snooker, to play a shot that causes the cue ball to travel backward after striking the object ball.
"He played a perfect screw back to leave the cue ball in an ideal position for his next shot."
inseparable
Literal vs figurative
Words literally mean
To screw (fasten by rotating) something back (to its original position).
Actually means
To put something back by turning or screwing it into place, the way it was before.
Usage tip
Used both literally (reattaching a lid, component, or panel with screws) and in billiards/snooker (a 'screw back' shot makes the cue ball return after striking). Mainly a literal, practical verb.
Words that pair with "screw back"
Natural word combinations native speakers use most often.
lid cap panel cover fitting component
How to conjugate "screw back"
The five tense forms you'll use most often.
Base
screw back
I/you/we/they
3rd person
screws back
he/she/it
Past simple
screwed back
yesterday
Past participle
screwed back
have + pp
-ing form
screwing back
continuous
Hear "screw back" in the wild
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Other ways to say "screw back"
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