backlash

Definition of backlashnext
as in reaction
a strong public response against something There was swift backlash to the senator's controversial comments.

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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 The delivery robots have become a common sight on the streets of downtown Philadelphia and have sparked backlash. — Terrence O'Brien, The Verge, 18 Oct. 2026 Some outlets speculated the muted rollout of Kalshi’s new partnerships was a response to the backlash the New York teams received, although the teams disputed that characterization to CNN Sports. — Hannah Keyser, CNN Money, 18 Oct. 2026 Bersten was tapped as a single-episode replacement for Chmerkovskiy after the latter pro made online comments about judge Carrie Ann Inaba that sparked a widespread backlash. — Ryan Coleman, Entertainment Weekly, 18 Oct. 2026 In 2024, the company promoted its thin new iPad Pro by crushing musical instruments, cameras, and other creative tools beneath a hydraulic press, prompting a backlash and an apology. — Tatiana Sataua, Fortune, 15 Oct. 2026 See All Example Sentences for backlash
Recent Examples of Synonyms for backlash
reaction
Noun
  • The trigger for lithium-ion battery fires is a process called thermal runaway, a cascading sequence of heat-releasing reactions inside the battery cell.
    — Suhauna Hussain, Los Angeles Times, 15 Oct. 2026
  • While there were mixed reactions at the time, the numbers are now backing up the idea.
    — Jessica Riley, CBS News, 15 Oct. 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Backlash.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/backlash. Accessed 22 Oct. 2026.

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