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

Majeed also faces backlash for siding with Republicans on a veto override. —Mary Ramsey, Charlotte Observer, 28 Feb. 2026

The backlash from last year’s festival persisted, and fans called on the groups to withdraw from the 2026 festival, which several bands did. —Charlie Vargas, Oc Register, 28 Feb. 2026

How has the men's team reacted to the backlash? —Allison Degrushe, Entertainment Weekly, 28 Feb. 2026

Last year, Scouting America's President and CEO Roger Krone acknowledged some backlash to the rebrand but described the overall response as a positive one that generated wider interest. —CBS News, 27 Feb. 2026

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