What is the meaning of the word "backpedal"?

Definitions:

  1. to modify one's opinion, make it less strong copy to clipboard verb
    • After hearing new evidence the politician backpedaled to try to seem less extreme. copy to clipboard
  2. to pedal backwards on a bicycle copy to clipboard verb
    • I backpedal down hills for fun. copy to clipboard
  3. to step backwards, in boxing copy to clipboard verb
    • The opponent backpedalled. copy to clipboard