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

In 2024, the state Department of Labor reported a backlog of around 1,000 wage theft cases, with some waiting several months before they were examined by the state. —P.r. Lockhart, Hartford Courant, 25 Feb. 2026

According to the court, the backlog was discovered last year during a technology-modernization project that began roughly a decade ago to replace the court’s Trial Court Information System, which was originally installed in the 1980s. —City News Service, Daily News, 24 Feb. 2026

Verb

His court date was scheduled for 2027, a date far in the future because of the nation’s immigration courts backlog. —Lawrence Mower, Miami Herald, 26 Aug. 2025

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

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