backfire

[ bak-fahyuhr ]

verb (used without object)

, back·fired, back·fir·ing.

1. (of an internal-combustion engine) to have a loud, premature explosion in the intake manifold.
2. to bring a result opposite to that which was planned or expected:

   The plot backfired.

   Synonyms: bomb, flop, boomerang, miscarry

3. to start a fire deliberately in order to check a forest or prairie fire by creating a barren area in advance of it.

noun

1. (in an internal-combustion engine) premature ignition of fuel in the intake manifold.
2. an explosion coming out of the breech of a firearm.
3. a fire started intentionally to check the advance of a forest or prairie fire.

backfire

/ ˌbækˈfaɪə /

verb

1. (of an internal-combustion engine) to emit a loud noise as a result of an explosion in the inlet manifold or exhaust system
2. (of an endeavour, plan, etc) to have an unwanted effect on its perpetrator

   his plans backfired on him

3. to start a controlled fire in order to halt an advancing forest or prairie fire by creating a barren area

noun

1. in an internal-combustion engine
   1. an explosion of unburnt gases in the exhaust system
   2. a premature explosion in a cylinder or inlet manifold
2. a controlled fire started to create a barren area that will halt an advancing forest or prairie fire

Word History and Origins

Origin of backfire¹

An Americanism dating back to 1775–85; back ² + fire

Example Sentences

Although this might sound like a positive step, Dahl argues, these laws will likely backfire.

From Slate

But, if his first term is any indication, Trump's sociopathic tactics, while alarmingly charming to a lot of voters, tend to backfire in the art of the deal on Capitol Hill.

From Salon

The planning department warns two-for-one replacement could backfire.

From Los Angeles Times

Having former President Obama lecture Black male voters about anything is going to backfire.

From Salon

I think her strategy to focus the final two months of her campaign on reaching out to erstwhile moderate Republicans will backfire and depress turnout, among young voters in particular.

From Slate

Related Words

• fail
• flop