backfired; backfiring; backfires
Definition of backfire
(Entry 1 of 2)
1
: to have the reverse of the desired or expected effect
their plans backfired
2
: to make or undergo a backfire
backfire
nounDefinition of backfire (Entry 2 of 2)
1
: a loud noise caused by the improperly timed explosion of fuel mixture in the cylinder of an internal combustion engine
2
: a fire started to check an advancing fire by clearing an area
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Merriam-Webster unabridged
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Time Traveler for backfire
The first known use of backfire was in 1801
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