backlog

1 of 2

noun

back·​log ˈbak-ˌlȯg How to pronounce backlog (audio)
-ˌläg
Synonyms of backlognext
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
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Noun
While there's a large backlog of repayment plan applications, the Education Department has recently made progress in processing the forms. Annie Nova, CNBC, 24 Mar. 2026 According to a client advisory from Seko Logistics Monday, more than 26,000 flights have been impacted to date, driving the persistent global backlogs. Glenn Taylor, Sourcing Journal, 24 Mar. 2026
Verb
Many Transportation Security Administration officers have gone unpaid, creating massive security line backlogs at a few major airports, including in Houston. Dallas Morning News, 9 Mar. 2026 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 See All Example Sentences for backlog

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

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Backlog.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/backlog. Accessed 27 Mar. 2026.

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

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