Meaning & Definition of word "Backfire"
Backfire
/ˈbækˌfaɪər/
noun:
- 1. an instance of a plan or action having the opposite effect to what was intended.
- Example: The marketing campaign turned into a backfire when the public responded negatively.
- 2. a loud explosive sound caused by an engine failing to fire correctly.
- Example: The backfire of the old truck could be heard several blocks away.
verb:
- 1. to have the opposite effect to what was intended; to produce a result that is contrary to what was expected.
- Example: His scheme to cut costs backfired when it led to a decrease in product quality.
- 2. to explode in the process of firing, often used in the context of engines.
- Example: The car's engine backfired loudly, startling everyone in the vicinity.
- 3. to cause a plan or action to fail, often in a dramatic or unforeseen way.
- Example: The politician's attempt to discredit his opponent backfired when it revealed more about his own corruption.
Etymology
●From the compound of 'back' and 'fire', originally referring to engines.
Common Phrases and Expressions
backfire on someone:
To have a negative effect on someone when they intended to have a positive effect.
Related Words
misfire:
To fail to fire or go off as planned.
rebound:
To return to a starting point after hitting a barrier.
Slang Meanings of backfire
Meaning: When a prank or scheme goes wrong.
● Example Sentence: That prank totally backfired, now everyone's upset.
Meaning: To cause trouble for oneself.
● Example Sentence: Her gossiping backfired and now she's the talk of the town.