backlashed
Intermediate (B1)
IPA: /ˈbækˌlæʃt/
KK: /ˈbækˌlæʃt/
adjective
Definition
Describing something that has experienced a strong negative reaction or response, often as a result of a previous action or decision.
Example
The policy change was met with a backlashed response from the community.
Conversation
Did you hear about the new policy at work?
Yeah, some people really backlashed against it during the meeting yesterday.
I can understand why; it seems pretty unfair to many of us.
Exactly! I hope they reconsider after all the feedback.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
recoiled
retaliated
reacted
Antonyms
accepted
embraced
welcomed
verb
Definition
To respond negatively or with strong opposition to something that has happened or been said.
Example
The new policy was backlashed by many employees who felt it was unfair.
Tense Forms
Past: backlashed
Past Participle: backlashed
Conversation
Did you hear about the new policy at work?
Yeah, I heard it really backlashed against the employees.
I can't believe they thought it would be a good idea.
Root Explanation
Backlashed → It is formed from "back" (meaning in the opposite direction) and "lash" (from Old English "lascan", meaning to strike or whip). The word "backlashed" describes a reaction that strikes back or opposes something.
Memory Tip
Think of a reaction that strikes back in the opposite direction — 'back' means the opposite way, and 'lash' means to strike.
Visually Confused Words
No commonly confused words.