noun

backlash

BAK-lash

noun

A strong, usually negative, public reaction against a decision, action, or trend.

"The price hike triggered a swift backlash from customers."

A sudden reverse or recoil movement, such as slack snapping back in a rope or gear.

"Loose gears in the old mechanism caused a noticeable backlash."

verb

To react strongly and negatively against something.

"Fans backlashed against the surprise ending."

How to Use Backlash

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishA strong wave of public anger or resistance in response to something, or a mechanical recoil.

Common pairings

public backlash spark a backlash face a backlash

backlashed past tense, backlashes plural, backlashes singular

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Can you complete this real example?

The price hike triggered a swift _____ from customers.

From back + lash.