backlashes

plural of backlash
as in reactions
a strong public response against something There was swift backlash to the senator's controversial comments.

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Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of backlashes Mulvaney was already at the center of national debate after a Bud Light promotion helped trigger one of the most damaging corporate backlashes in recent memory. Dan Zaksheske Outkick, FOXNews.com, 20 Aug. 2026 And sometimes backlashes are built out of nothing. Charlie Warzel, The Atlantic, 15 May 2026 And Target has also dealt with boycotts and backlashes to the company’s political and social stances, such as its rollback of diversity, equity and inclusion pledges and its decision not to publicly oppose the surge of immigration enforcement in its hometown. Melissa Repko, CNBC, 18 Feb. 2026 Previous backlashes led to laws like California’s Proposition 13, a 1978 initiative that limited property tax rates and how much local governments could increase property valuations for tax purposes. Jeff Amy, Los Angeles Times, 1 Feb. 2026 Throughout history, disruptive technologies have often provoked violent backlashes. Craig S. Smith, Forbes.com, 21 Jan. 2026 Unless major economies accept equivalent limits on their ability to manage credit, currencies, and external accounts, the world will see recurring beggar-thy-neighbor tensions, protectionist backlashes, and a fragmented trading order. Michael Pettis, Foreign Affairs, 17 Nov. 2025 In recent years, companies like Zara, Anthropologie and Patowl have faced similar backlashes over designs or motifs perceived as too similar to traditional works. Isa Cardona, CNN Money, 6 Aug. 2025
Recent Examples of Synonyms for backlashes
reactions
Noun
  • The researchers say, however, that some of the metabolic reactions were catalyzed not by elaborate protein enzymes, as in all organisms today, but by simple metallic chemical elements found in the hydrothermal vents’ minerals.
    Philip Ball, Scientific American, 20 Aug. 2026
  • Confusion, frustration and celebration were among the top public reactions to reports that Prince Harry and Duchess Meghan will leave the United States after six years and move back to the United Kingdom.
    Anthony Robledo, USA Today, 20 Aug. 2026

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“Backlashes.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/backlashes. Accessed 26 Aug. 2026.

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