Zurücksetzung

Zurücksetzung is a German noun formed from the verb zurücksetzen, meaning to reset or to set back. The term denotes the act or process of restoring something to a previous state or undoing changes. It is used in both technical contexts and in everyday language to describe reversals or rollbacks.

Etymology and usage: The word combines zurück- (back) with setzen (to set). In written German it appears in phrases that describe restoring defaults, such as Zurücksetzung der Einstellungen or Passwort-Zurücksetzung. Although it is closely related to Rücksetzung, Zurücksetzung is common in formal or documentation contexts and may vary regionally.

In technology and computing: The primary sense is the reset of devices, software, or configurations to a prior state, often to default or factory settings. Common forms include Zurücksetzung auf Werkseinstellungen and options labeled Zurücksetzen. In data-protection contexts a Zurücksetzung may involve erasing data or clearing credentials as part of a reset procedure.

Other uses: Beyond technical contexts, the term can denote a rollback in plans, policies, or social processes—a setback or regression toward an earlier condition. In everyday speech it can describe a temporary or strategic retreat from a previous course of action.

See also: zurücksetzen; Rücksetzung; Passwort-Zurücksetzung; Werkseinstellungen; Reset (Informatik).