backflow

noun

back·​flow ˈbak-ˌflō 

: a flowing back or returning especially toward a source

Examples of backflow in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

To mitigate flooding, Fort Lauderdale has raised miles of seawalls, installed tidal valves to prevent backflow, and is investing millions more in flood-prevention infrastructure. — Joan Murray, CBS News, 28 Oct. 2026

His heart valves showed no signs of bacterial growth, but trace backflow was detected across one of his valves, a finding present in most people. — Leah Pierson, STAT, 6 Oct. 2026

None of the pools had vacuum breakers installed on hose bibs, a backflow-prevention requirement. — Verónica Egui Brito, Miami Herald, 10 Aug. 2026

The cause of the chlorine gas exposure was likely due to the backflow process, which is used to clear out pool filters throughout the day, the news release states. — Greta Cross, USA Today, 3 June 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1878, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for backflow

• acknow
• aglow
• ago
• airglow
• aloe
• altho
• although
• ammo
• backhoe
• banjo
• barbeau
• bateau