blowback

noun

blow·​back ˈblō-ˌbak 

: an unforeseen and unwanted effect, result, or set of repercussions

Examples of blowback in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

But in China's calculation, proving progress toward a building a full nuclear triad was worth the risk of regional blowback, said Lyle Morris, senior fellow at Asia Society Policy Institute. — Anniek Bao, CNBC, 8 July 2026

Short of lawsuits, employers may fear blowback from their workers, who surveys show are content with traditional investment options. — Paul Kiel, ProPublica, 8 July 2026

After the blowback that decision received, however, I’d be shocked if Belichick wasn’t a part of the Class of 2027). — Scott Fowler july 8, Charlotte Observer, 8 July 2026

But the proposal triggered an onslaught of blowback from historians, preservationists and the advisory Preservation Board itself, which was first formed 50 years ago. — Ryan Gillespie, The Orlando Sentinel, 5 July 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1954, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for blowback

• aback
• attack
• backpack
• backtrack
• bareback
• blackjack
• brownback
• buyback
• callback
• cognac
• comeback
• cutback