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

For weeks, Nigeria’s government has been under pressure to respond to the White House’s accusations, and its pushback has so far been restricted to conversations in Abuja between the foreign ministry and presidency. —Alexis Akwagyiram, semafor.com, 28 Nov. 2025

Ice Spice, who came up in the drill scene, faced little pushback for taking money from Dunkin’. —W. David Marx, The Atlantic, 25 Nov. 2025

Saudi Arabia has become an increasingly popular destination for global sporting events, including the WTA Finals and the 2034 World Cup, despite pushback from those who argue the country’s values don’t align with those of many female athletes and fans. —Jacob Feldman, Sportico.com, 25 Nov. 2025

But now, after pushback from congressional Republicans, that plan seems to be on hold. —Daniel De Visé, USA Today, 25 Nov. 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