as in reaction
a strong public response against something
There was swift backlash to the senator's controversial comments.
Related Words
Relevance
Example Sentences
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to
show current usage.
Read More
Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors.
Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of backlash
Graham has received public backlash in the past for anti-LGBTQ+ views.
—
Esther Frances, Charlotte Observer, 26 Mar. 2026
Whether future broadcasts bring more stunts like the Thing’s first pitch — or whether fan backlash prompts a course correction — remains to be seen.
—Ryan Brennan, Miami Herald, 26 Mar. 2026
Trump aides say the backlash sends views soaring.
—Drew Harwell, Washington Post, 25 Mar. 2026
Aware of the backlash, HBO’s chief content officer Casey Bloys discussed the series’ content on a podcast in May last year.
—Charisma Madarang, Rolling Stone, 25 Mar. 2026
See All Example Sentences for backlash
Esther Frances, Charlotte Observer, 26 Mar. 2026
Whether future broadcasts bring more stunts like the Thing’s first pitch — or whether fan backlash prompts a course correction — remains to be seen.
—Ryan Brennan, Miami Herald, 26 Mar. 2026
Trump aides say the backlash sends views soaring.
—Drew Harwell, Washington Post, 25 Mar. 2026
Aware of the backlash, HBO’s chief content officer Casey Bloys discussed the series’ content on a podcast in May last year.
—Charisma Madarang, Rolling Stone, 25 Mar. 2026
See All Example Sentences for backlash
Recent Examples of Synonyms for backlash
reaction
Noun
-
Hamilton says severe sleep deprivation can be comparable to driving under the influence, affecting your accuracy and reaction time.—
Wakisha Bailey,
CBS News,
27 Mar. 2026
-
John Mellencamp’s Icon Award performance at the 2026 iHeartRadio Music Awards on Thursday, March 26, sparked a split reaction, with younger audience members appearing unfamiliar with his hits while longtime fans got emotional.—
Samantha Agate,
Kansas City Star,
27 Mar. 2026
Cite this Entry
“Backlash.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/backlash. Accessed 30 Mar. 2026.
Copy CitationLove words? Need even more definitions?
Merriam-Webster unabridged
