backlash Hear it!

backlash definition

back·lash (-las̸h′)

noun

  1. a quick, sharp recoil
  2. any sudden or violent reaction; specif., strong political or social reaction resulting from fear or resentment of a movement, candidate, etc.
  3. a snarl in a reeled fishing line, resulting from an imperfect cast
  4. the jarring reaction of loose or worn parts; also, the play in these parts

Webster's New World College Dictionary Copyright © 2009 by Wiley Publishing, Inc., Cleveland, Ohio.
Used by arrangement with John Wiley & Sons, Inc.

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