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 resignation of a Southern California mayor who pleaded guilty to acting as a foreign agent for China has sparked backlash and reignited fears of anti-Asian discrimination. —Alicia Victoria Lozano, NBC news, 14 May 2026

The charges have Arcadia’s predominantly Asian American community worried about potential anti-Asian backlash, though city officials emphasize that Wang’s alleged misconduct occurred before her 2022 election to the City Council. —Assistant Editor, Los Angeles Times, 14 May 2026

Last year, veteran reporter Christine Brennan faced backlash — including a formal statement from the WNBPA — after asking DiJonai Carrington whether contact with Caitlin Clark during a controversial play was intentional. —Amber Harding Outkick, FOXNews.com, 14 May 2026

That comes as backlash to data centers continues to rise. —Jake Angelo, Fortune, 14 May 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