backlog

1 of 2

noun

back·​log ˈbak-ˌlȯg 

-ˌläg

1

: a large log at the back of a hearth fire

2

: an accumulation of tasks unperformed or materials not processed

a backlog of court cases

backlog

2 of 2

verb

backlogged; backlogging; backlogs

: accumulate

Examples of backlog in a Sentence

Noun

We have a huge backlog of orders to be filled.

Recent Examples on the Web

Noun

Even routine settlements now require approval from a political appointee, exacerbating the case backlog and delaying relief for victims, officials said. —Jesse Coburn, ProPublica, 15 May 2025

The Implications For Sales And Revenue Leaders Most B2B sales organizations have an unsustainably large amount of transformation debt, a backlog of improvements that should have been made long ago but weren’t. —Forrester, Forbes.com, 14 May 2025

Verb

For the 2024 tax season, Collins urged the IRS to make clearing up its identity theft backlog a higher priority. —Michelle Singletary, Washington Post, 12 Jan. 2024

Related:Infractions backlog likely to push Louisville basketball's case into a sixth year NCAA's Complex Case Unit's allegations against Louisville men's basketball: 1. —Tim Sullivan, The Courier-Journal, 28 Mar. 2022

Word History

First Known Use

Noun

1684, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Verb

1963, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for backlog

• agog
• bulldog
• bullfrog
• eclogue
• eggnog
• groundhog
• hedgehog
• leapfrog
• prolog
• sheepdog
• watchdog
• analog

Kids Definition

backlog

noun

back·​log

-ˌlȯg,

-ˌläg

1

: a large log at the back of a fire in a fireplace

2

: an accumulation of tasks that have not been finished