blowback

noun

blow·​back ˈblō-ˌbak How to pronounce blowback (audio)
: an unforeseen and unwanted effect, result, or set of repercussions

Examples of blowback in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
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The political blowback was swift from moderate political parties, threatening the support of Commission President Ursula von der Leyen. Jon McGowan, Forbes.com, 29 June 2025 Further, targeting scientists may trigger blowback given concerns regarding legality and morality. Jenna Jordan, The Conversation, 19 June 2025 Some within the Democratic Party are arguing that the California governor, seen as one of the contenders for the party’s nomination in 2028, is taking the right approach amidst the blowback. Filip Timotija, The Hill, 15 June 2025 In his first year in office, however, the two-term governor also failed to note who was most impacted by the shooting, and faced blowback. Steven Lemongello, The Orlando Sentinel, 12 June 2025 See All Example Sentences for blowback

Word History

First Known Use

1954, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of blowback was in 1954

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Cite this Entry

“Blowback.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/blowback. Accessed 4 Jul. 2025.

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