Backlash

/ˈbækˌlæʃ/

Meaning & Definition

noun

a strong and adverse reaction by a large number of people, especially to a social or political change.

The new policy on immigration faced significant backlash from the community.

a movement backward, especially in a mechanism.

After the machine was activated, there was a noticeable backlash as it engaged.

verb

to react against something strongly.

The company's decision to cut employee benefits caused some workers to backlash in protests.

From back + lash, meaning to strike back or recoil.

backlash effect

The unintended consequences resulting from actions taken.

public backlash

Widespread public disapproval that arises in response to an event or change.

landslide backlash

A dramatic and overwhelming reaction, often in politics.

recoil

To suddenly spring or flinch back in fear, horror, or disgust.

resistance

The refusal to accept or comply.

response

A reaction to something.

A cool way to say that there's a negative reaction to something.

Yo, the backlash from that video was insane!

Used to describe a scenario where someone gets negative attention.

He's really feeling the backlash after that tweet.