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

The backlash was small and easily contained. —W. James Antle Iii, The Washington Examiner, 18 Nov. 2025

Nonetheless, Japan’s anti-immigrant backlash may tempt Takaichi to appease the country’s right wing and reverse the progress that previous governments have made on immigration. —Gracia Liu-Farrer, Foreign Affairs, 18 Nov. 2025

Carlson’s conversation with Fuentes has sparked backlash from many Republican lawmakers and right-wing figures. —Chantelle Lee, Time, 17 Nov. 2025

The interview between Fuentes and Carlson drew widespread backlash, including from MAGA figures such as Texas Senator Ted Cruz, for giving a platform to extremist views—Fuentes has espoused Holocaust denial and white nationalist ideology. —Jordan King, MSNBC Newsweek, 17 Nov. 2025

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