backlash

noun

back·​lash ˈbak-ˌlash How to pronounce backlash (audio)
1
a
: a sudden violent backward movement or reaction
b
: the play between adjacent movable parts (as in a series of gears)
also : the jar caused by this when the parts are put into action
2
: a snarl in that part of a fishing line wound on the reel
3
: a strong adverse reaction (as to a recent political or social development)
backlasher noun

Examples of backlash in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
In 2021, his government refused to call off the festival in Haridwar despite a surge in coronavirus cases, fearing a backlash from religious leaders in the Hindu-majority country. Fox News, 13 Jan. 2025 Transparency builds trust with employees, stakeholders and customers, fostering loyalty and mitigating potential backlash. Expert Panel®, Forbes, 13 Jan. 2025 President Joe Biden faced considerable backlash from his own base for continuing to send weapons to Israel, with Sen. Bernie Sanders, I-Vt., and a small number of Democrats leading multiple attempts to block such sales in November. Adam Taylor The Washington Post, arkansasonline.com, 13 Jan. 2025 Despite the initial backlash, the response from Moore’s supporters has been overwhelming. Jenzia Burgos, StyleCaster, 12 Jan. 2025 See all Example Sentences for backlash 

Word History

First Known Use

1815, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Time Traveler
The first known use of backlash was in 1815

Dictionary Entries Near backlash

Cite this Entry

“Backlash.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/backlash. Accessed 18 Jan. 2025.

Kids Definition

backlash

noun
back·​lash ˈbak-ˌlash How to pronounce backlash (audio)
: a reaction against some political or social development
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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