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 current revival attempt is driven by higher capital costs and a backlash against ESG frameworks, offering a seemingly simple objective. — Steve Denning, Forbes.com, 3 Aug. 2026

This prompted backlash from critics, who felt that the platforms were stifling free speech or putting their thumb on the scale politically. — Max Tani, semafor.com, 3 Aug. 2026

Geno Segers is breaking his silence after being fired from Broadway’s Hadestown following backlash over resurfaced transgender comments. — Armando Tinoco, Deadline, 3 Aug. 2026

Following backlash and a planned boycott from European nations, FIFA swiftly abandoned its plan to sell stakes in the World Cup to minority investors just days after the announcement. — Brittney Melton, NPR, 3 Aug. 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