back·ped·al
 /ˈbækˌpɛdl̩/  verb  , -ped·als,  US   -ped·aled  or chiefly Brit   -ped·alled,  US   -ped·al·ing  or chiefly Brit   -ped·al·ling [  no obj  ]
  : to move backward with quick steps
   The outfielder backpedaled a few steps to catch the fly ball.
  — sometimes used figuratively
   When threatened with a revolt of its own supporters, the government backpedaled [=retreated, backtracked] from its previous position.