Main Entry:

back·lash

Pronunciation:

\ˈbak-ˌlash\

Function:

noun

Date:

1815

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 action2: a snarl in that part of a fishing line wound on the reel3: a strong adverse reaction (as to a recent political or social development)

— back·lash·er noun