pushback

noun

push·​back ˈpu̇sh-ˌbak 

1

: the action of forcing an object backward

2

: resistance or opposition in response to a policy or regulation especially by those affected

Examples of pushback in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Parent pushback Still, some advocates believe that the district should be doing more to restrict technology in education. — Julianna Mejia july 23, Kansas City Star, 23 July 2026

Much of the pushback against further regulations has come from the lobster and crab industries in New England states like Maine and Massachusetts. — ABC News, 22 July 2026

The deal could face pushback from some lawmakers in both parties amid concerns about proliferation of nuclear technology in the Middle East and ongoing efforts to force Iran to curb its nuclear program. — Siladitya Ray, Forbes.com, 22 July 2026

But the fallout from the smoke migration may be helping the administration indirectly by easing pushback from northern border-state GOP lawmakers. — Eleanor Mueller, semafor.com, 21 July 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1942, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for pushback

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