backflow

noun

back·​flow ˈbak-ˌflō How to pronounce backflow (audio)
: a flowing back or returning especially toward a source

Examples of backflow in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web Available at Amazon Rain Bird FHT Backflow Preventer Most areas require a backflow preventer, or anti-siphon device, which prevents water used in the drip system from re-entering the potable water supply. Laura Duerr, Chicago Tribune, 23 Apr. 2023 Another five points was lost because The Pita Stop did not have a backflow prevention device in a faucet where a hose is used. Howard Koplowitz | Hkoplowitz@al.com, al, 5 Apr. 2023 The drainage ports in the stable ring base allow for water to flow easily and quickly, preventing backflow so that your food doesn’t sit in dirty water. L. Daniela Alvarez, Better Homes & Gardens, 29 Mar. 2023 Other goalies who try to use backflow can get caught moving too much, or not be square to the shooter. Matt Porter, BostonGlobe.com, 14 Jan. 2023 Unless the astronaut can keep the mouth closed and reswallow that backflow — which Pogue heroically managed to do — any liquids or solids ejected during a wet burp could conceivably float off and lodge in sensitive instruments. Christian Millman, Discover Magazine, 29 Oct. 2015 In response to the cases, the OPH tried boosting sanitation around potable water spigots at campsites, including daily chlorine disinfections and mechanical devices that prevent backflow. Beth Mole, Ars Technica, 28 Sep. 2022 This technique — in which a boat reverses its engine and the backflow creates a channel to free the dolphins — and subsequent refinements resulted in the release of 95 percent of the dolphins caught in the nets. Michael A. Gardiner, San Diego Union-Tribune, 8 June 2022 Check valves allow gas or liquid to flow in one direction to prevent backflow. Ashley Strickland, CNN, 14 Apr. 2022 See More

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'backflow.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

First Known Use

1878, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of backflow was in 1878

Dictionary Entries Near backflow

Cite this Entry

“Backflow.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/backflow. Accessed 30 Nov. 2023.

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