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

While the pushback on South Park wasn't surprising to me, the intensity of the barbs were eye-opening. —Eric Deggans, NPR, 27 July 2025

The other pushback is: Why should countries like Germany with low funding costs do this? —New York Times, 26 July 2025

Sources say two prominent Democrats are stepping away from a national bipartisan organization that brings together the chief executives of all 50 states, citing a lack of pushback to Trump administration policies and to some recent threats to state funding and operations. —Brittany Shepherd, ABC News, 26 July 2025

The pushback comes as the firefighters union kicks off negotiations with the city on a new labor contract — and days after association members overwhelmingly approved a vote of no-confidence in Baker. —Alex Driggars, Austin American Statesman, 25 July 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1942, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for pushback

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