Definition

The movement of water back to the sea after a wave has crashed onto the shore.

Example

After the wave broke, the backrush pulled the sand back into the ocean.

Conversation

Did you see how strong the waves were at the beach yesterday?

Yeah, they were massive! I could really feel the backrush when I swam.

It was so powerful, I almost lost my balance.

I know what you mean! That backrush can be really surprising.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Backrush is formed from "back" (from Old English "bæc", meaning the rear or behind) and "rush" (from Old English "rysce", meaning to move quickly or to hurry). The word describes a quick movement or return to a previous position or state, often in a sudden manner.

Memory Tip

Think of moving quickly 'back' to a previous place or state — that's what 'backrush' means.

Visually Confused Words