backlog

[ bak-lawg, -log ]

noun

1. a reserve or accumulation, as of stock, work, or business:

   a backlog of business orders.

   Synonyms: reservoir, cache, fund, store, stock, supply

2. a large log at the back of a hearth to keep up a fire. Compare forestick.

verb (used with object)

, back·logged, back·log·ging.

1. to hold in reserve, as for future handling or repair.
2. to enter and acknowledge (an order) for future shipment.

verb (used without object)

, back·logged, back·log·ging.

1. to accumulate in a backlog:

   Orders are starting to backlog faster than we can process them.

backlog

/ ˈbækˌlɒɡ /

noun

1. an accumulation of uncompleted work, unsold stock, etc, to be dealt with
2. a large log at the back of a fireplace

Word History and Origins

Origin of backlog¹

First recorded in 1675–85; back ¹ + log ¹

Example Sentences

BBC Wales has also been told there have been difficulties obtaining supplies like wound packs and speculums, and that clinics had been cancelled, causing patient backlogs.

From BBC

Labour say they have hired more caseworkers to tackle the asylum backlog.

From BBC

If too many devices are seeking those video segments at the same time, it can cause a backlog.

From Los Angeles Times

She said the new Labour government’s decision to financially peg back how much work judges could do meant some courts would be out of use, despite record backlogs.

From BBC

The backlog of initial disability determinations reached a near-record of 1.2 million applicants awaiting a decision, some for more than a year.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• inventory
• stockpile