backlog

1 of 2

noun

back·​log ˈbak-ˌlȯg How to pronounce backlog (audio)
-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

Examples of backlog in a Sentence

Noun We have a huge backlog of orders to be filled.
Recent Examples on the Web
Noun
The state has reduced its SNAP backlog in 2024 from about 166,000 applications to 90,000. Megan Stringer, Axios, 20 Sep. 2024 In the nearly four years since the city had counted its previous backlog, more than 700 additional untested kits had piled up. Tricia L. Nadolny, USA TODAY, 19 Sep. 2024
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 See all Example Sentences for backlog 

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'backlog.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

First Known Use

Noun

1684, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Verb

1963, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of backlog was in 1684

Dictionary Entries Near backlog

Cite this Entry

“Backlog.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/backlog. Accessed 5 Oct. 2024.

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
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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