(colloquial) to put something on the back burner, means to set it aside temporarily, or into a condition of low priority. The word "burner" in this phrase refers to the part of a cooking stove that heats up. The phrase comes from the custom in cooking of placing pots not requiring immediate attention toward the rear of the stove. (see Longman and Glossary)(colloquial) in or into a condition of low priority or temporary deferment. From the custom in cooking of placing pots not requiring immediate attention toward the rear of the stove.(colloquial) in or into a condition of low priority or temporary deferment. From the custom in cooking of placing pots not requiring immediate attention toward the rear of the stove. Attitude and Conduct of Scientology Approved 25.2.91(slang) not being actively considered; in reserve; on hold. The phrase derives from the custom in cooking of placing pots not requiring immediate attention toward the rear of the stove.out of the forefront of one's attention; in or into a condition in which something is temporarily postponed or given lesser priority. This expression comes from the action of cooking with a pan on the front of the stove and then moving it to a back burner where it can be kept warm. A burner is that part of a heat-producing or fuel-burning device, such as on a stove, where the flame or heat is produced. The front burners of a stove are used mainly for pots or pans that require stirring and watching and where the food gets cooked much faster. The back burners are used to cook food slowly or to keep it warm until served, both of which require little or no attention.