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

Piker, a staunchly anti-Israel streamer who has made comments supporting Hamas, campaigned with El-Sayed in April, prompting pushback from Jewish groups and moderate Democrats, who questioned El-Sayed's judgment and electability in the fall. — Emily R. Condon, USA Today, 4 Aug. 2026

Missouri legislators approved the seven-Republican, one-Democrat map nearly a year ago, and the approval was quickly met with pushback from Democrats. — Claire Carter, The Washington Examiner, 4 Aug. 2026

But the decision has sparked intense pushback from Ballantyne residents who view the Morrison branch as a vital community cornerstone. — Charlotte Observer, 4 Aug. 2026

The session comes as cities across the United States contend with data centers sprouting up in local communities — triggering pushback almost anywhere they are built as the demand to power artificial intelligence grows. — Ryan MacAsero, Mercury News, 3 Aug. 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