'Backlash' definitions:

Definition of 'backlash'

From: WordNet
noun
A movement back from an impact [syn: recoil, repercussion, rebound, backlash]
noun
An adverse reaction to some political or social occurrence; "there was a backlash of intolerance"
verb
Come back to the originator of an action with an undesired effect; "Your comments may backfire and cause you a lot of trouble" [syn: backfire, backlash, recoil]

Definition of 'Backlash'

From: GCIDE
  • Backlash \Back"lash`\ (b[a^]k"l[a^]sh`), n. [Back, adv. + lash.]
  • 1. (Mech.) The distance through which one part of connected machinery, as a wheel, piston, or screw, can be moved without moving the connected parts, resulting from looseness in fitting or from wear; also, the jarring or reflex motion caused in badly fitting machinery by irregularities in velocity or a reverse of motion. [1913 Webster]
  • 2. A strong and sudden reverse movement in a moving part of a machine. [PJC]
  • 3. A strong popular reaction serving to counter the effect of an action; -- used especially of adverse reactions to social or political developments. [PJC]

Words containing 'Backlash'