feedback

noun

feed·​back ˈfēd-ˌbak 

1

a

: the transmission of evaluative or corrective information about an action, event, or process to the original or controlling source

also : the information so transmitted

b

: the partial reversion (see reversion sense 3a) of the effects of a process to its source or to a preceding stage

2

: the return to the input of a part of the output of a machine, system, or process (as for producing changes in an electronic circuit that improve performance or in an automatic control device that provide self-corrective action)

3

: a rumbling, whining, or whistling sound resulting from an amplified or broadcast signal (such as music or speech) that has been returned as input and retransmitted

Examples of feedback in a Sentence

The company uses customer feedback to improve its products.

He asked for some feedback from his boss.

The computer makes adjustments based on feedback from the sensors.

We were getting some feedback from the microphone.

Recent Examples on the Web

Perhaps this feedback is making its way into the model. —Caroline Mimbs Nyce, The Atlantic, 16 Aug. 2024

Users should return the candle to any Trader Joe’s store for a full cash refund of $4, or complete a product feedback form online to receive a $4 Trader Joe’s gift card by mail. —Rob Wile, NBC News, 15 Aug. 2024

For example, one of us (T.C.) is involved with the SOPHIE Project, an initiative at the University of Rochester to create an AI avatar trained to portray a patient and provide personalized feedback. —Evan Selinger and Thomas Carroll, STAT, 15 Aug. 2024

This feedback can be used to refine retention strategies and address any systemic issues that may be contributing to turnover. —Stephen Nalley, Rolling Stone, 15 Aug. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1919, in the meaning defined at sense 2

Phrases Containing feedback

• feedback inhibition
• negative feedback
• positive feedback

Kids Definition

feedback

noun

feed·​back ˈfēd-ˌbak 

1

a

: the return to the input of a part of the output of a machine, system, or process

b

: noise resulting from the feedback of an amplified or broadcast signal

2

: the giving or sending of information or of something from which information can be obtained about the value, effect, or result of an action or process to the controlling source

also : the information or information-containing material so given or sent

Medical Definition

feedback

noun

feed·​back ˈfēd-ˌbak 

1

: the return to the input of part of the output of a machine, system, or process (as for producing changes in an electronic circuit that improve performance or in an automatic control device that provide self-corrective action)

2

a

: the partial reversion of the effects of a process to its source or to a preceding stage

b

: the return to a point of origin of evaluative or corrective information about an action or process

patient feedback was solicited

also : the information so transmitted