blowback

noun

blow·​back ˈblō-ˌbak How to pronounce blowback (audio)
: an unforeseen and unwanted effect, result, or set of repercussions

Examples of blowback in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
The ranks of Trump enemies with legal blowback could soon include former DOJ special counsel Jack Smith. Shelby Talcott, semafor.com, 8 Oct. 2025 Trump is also facing blowback for his calls to deploy troops in Portland, Oregon. Solcyré Burga, Time, 8 Oct. 2025 If Gorsuch and Kavanaugh have attracted blowback for their individual writings of late, on the left side of the court, Justice Ketanji Brown Jackson's rhetoric has also raised eyebrows for her slashing dissents. Nina Totenberg, NPR, 6 Oct. 2025 Thus, when the blowback came, the team did not panic. Maria Williams, USA Today, 3 Oct. 2025 See All Example Sentences for blowback

Word History

First Known Use

1954, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of blowback was in 1954

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Cite this Entry

“Blowback.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/blowback. Accessed 16 Oct. 2025.

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