Backlash
/ˈbæklæʃ/
Definitions
A strong adverse reaction to a social or political situation or event.
/ˈbæklæʃ/
A strong negative reaction to something.
The government's policy change triggered a violent backlash.
💡 Simply: A strong negative response.
More Examples
The company faced a backlash from consumers after the product recall.
How It's Used
"The new law faced a strong backlash from the public."
"The controversial decision resulted in a significant backlash on social media."
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
Antonyms
From "back" + "lash." Originally referring to the recoil of a mechanism, it later developed to describe a strong negative reaction.
While the word's mechanical origin is older, its widespread figurative use gained traction in the 20th century, particularly reflecting public reactions to social and political events.
Memory tip
Think of a whip's lash snapping back – that's the force of a backlash.
Word Origin
"The combination of "back" indicating a return and "lash" suggesting a forceful strike."