backlash

noun

back·​lash ˈbak-ˌlash 

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

As expected, backlash to her decision arrived swiftly. —David Oliver, USA Today, 10 Sep. 2025

As to potential intra party backlash? —Claire Heddles, Miami Herald, 10 Sep. 2025

First came a disastrous logo rollout that sparked intense backlash and sent the company’s stock tumbling. —Daniel Wine, CNN Money, 9 Sep. 2025

Failing to integrate bridge management can trigger sharp income declines, strained tenant relationships, community backlash, or even safety and reputational risks. —Kristin Mueller, Forbes.com, 9 Sep. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1815, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Phrases Containing backlash

• anti-backlash

Rhymes for backlash

• chumash
• eyelash
• moustache
• mustache
• noncash
• potash
• rehash
• whiplash
• ash
• bash
• brash
• cache

Kids Definition

backlash

noun

back·​lash ˈbak-ˌlash 

: a reaction against some political or social development