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

The 52-year-old Welshman, who found fame in insurance adverts, had been caught up in controversy with dance partner Katya Jones earlier in the series after what they called a "running joke" backfired.

From BBC

The 52-year-old Welshman, who found fame in insurance adverts, had earlier in the series been caught up in controversy with dance partner Katya Jones after what they called a "running joke" backfired.

From BBC

It backfired horribly against Greece but there is still plenty of positive, optimistic news he can provide Tuchel when that report lands on his desk.

From BBC

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

Gatland has opted for the more traditional balance of five forwards and three backs on his bench this time after the tactic of six forwards and two backs backfired against Fiji.

From BBC

Related Words

• fail
• flop