backlash
/ˈbækˌlæʃ/
NOUN
1. A strong negative reaction to an action or decision
A sudden, strong, and often widespread negative response to a policy, decision, statement, action, or event, typically expressed through criticism, opposition, or public protest.
1.1. Public criticism and disapproval
Refers to widespread negative reactions from the public, customers, employees, or communities in response to something considered unacceptable or controversial.
Synonyms
- outcry
- uproar
- protest
- opposition
- resistance
- resentment
- revulsion
- reaction
Examples
- The government's controversial decision triggered a widespread public backlash.
- The company faced a severe backlash after announcing the price increase.
- The celebrity's insensitive comments sparked a backlash on social media.
- The proposed changes met with strong backlash from local residents.
Related Words
- controversy
- criticism
- disapproval
- condemnation
- public opinion
- dissatisfaction
- controversial decision
1.2. Political and social opposition
Refers to organized or widespread resistance against political decisions, social changes, policies, or movements.
Synonyms
- resistance
- opposition
- counteraction
- counterreaction
- retaliation
- counterresponse
Examples
- The proposed legislation faced a strong backlash from opposition groups.
- The reform movement encountered a backlash from people who opposed the changes.
- The new policy generated considerable backlash among voters.
- The government's actions provoked a wave of resistance across the country.
Related Words
- activism
- demonstration
- protest movement
- public dissent
- political opposition
- social unrest
- civil disobedience
1.3. Retaliatory or counteracting response
Refers to a forceful reaction or counteraction against an action, attack, or attempt to impose influence, often producing consequences for the original initiator.
Synonyms
Examples
- The aggressive marketing strategy produced a backlash that damaged the company's reputation.
- The attempt to silence critics created an unexpected backlash.
- The harsh measures provoked retaliation from the affected communities.
Related Words
- reprisal
- revenge
- counterattack
- repercussion
- consequence
- blowback
NOUN
2. A sudden backward or reverse movement
A sudden backward movement or recoil caused by the release of tension, force, or a reversal of motion.
2.1. Mechanical recoil and reverse movement
Refers to a sudden backward movement of a mechanical part or mechanism, often resulting from a change in direction or the release of stored force.
Synonyms
Antonyms
- forward movement
Examples
- The sudden backlash of the mechanism startled the technician.
- The operator was warned about the possible backlash when the machine reversed direction.
Related Words
- springback
- tension
- friction
- mechanical force
- reverse motion
- momentum
NOUN
3. Mechanical looseness between connected components
The amount of free movement or play between connected mechanical parts before movement in one component causes movement in another.
3.1. Mechanical play and fitting clearance
Refers to unwanted free movement between connected gears, screws, wheels, or other machine components caused by looseness, wear, or imperfect fitting.
Synonyms
- mechanical play
- looseness
- clearance
- free play
Examples
- Excessive backlash in the gears reduced the machine's positioning accuracy.
- The technician adjusted the mechanism to minimize backlash between the connected components.
- Regular maintenance helps prevent excessive backlash in the transmission system.
Related Words
- gear clearance
- tolerance
- wear
- gear teeth
- mechanical fitting
- transmission
- friction
VERB
4. To produce a negative reaction or counterresponse
To cause or trigger a strong negative reaction, opposition, or retaliatory response.
4.1. Triggering public opposition
Describes causing widespread criticism, resentment, or resistance through an action, decision, statement, or policy.
Synonyms
Examples
- The controversial announcement backlashed against the company by provoking widespread criticism.
- The government's decision backlashed when citizens organized protests against the policy.
Related Words
- controversy
- public outcry
- opposition
- resentment
- disapproval
- protest