SINCE 1828
backmasking
noun
back·mask·ing
| \ ˈbak-ˌma-skiŋ
\
\
plural backmaskings
Definition of backmasking
: the encoding of audio materials (such as words conveying a secret message) on a recording in such a way that they can only be heard and understood when the recording is played backwards
Of the new bills, Rhode Island's is unique in that it calls for several different labels, including one that says “parental warning: this record contains backmasking that makes a verbal statement when this program is played backwards” …— Richard Harrington, Washington Post, 14 Mar. 1990
— called also backward masking
Keep scrolling for more
Comments on backmasking
What made you want to look up backmasking? Please tell us where you read or heard it (including the quote, if possible).
Test Your Vocabulary
Time Traveler Quiz: Which Word Came First?
-
- Which came first?
Test your visual vocabulary with our 10-question challenge!
TAKE THE QUIZ
Test Your Knowledge - and learn some interesting things along the way.
TAKE THE QUIZLove words? Need even more definitions?
Merriam-Webster unabridged
Words at Play
Ask the Editors
Word Games
-
Time Traveler Quiz: Which Word Came First?
Which word entered the English language first?
Take the quiz -
Slippery Words Quiz—Changing with the Times
Do you know these earlier meanings of words?
Take the quiz -
Name That Thing
Test your visual vocabulary with our 10-question challenge!
Take the quiz -
Dictionary Devil
The dictionary has been scrambled—can you put it back together?
Play the game
Share backmasking
Resources for backmasking