backpressure

or back pres·sure

[ bak-presh-er ]

noun

1. a resistant pressure exerted by liquid or gas against the forward motion or flow of an exhaust or pipe system:

   Careful control of backpressure ensures an even supply of oil from the well.

Word History and Origins

Origin of backpressure¹

First recorded in 1860–65; back ¹( def ) + pressure ( def )

Example Sentences

More important, within the buffet zone as the airplane approached the stall, the control forces — the necessary backpressure on the control column — did not increase in a conventional linear manner as they had in previous 737s and as certification standards required.

From New York Times

That resistance creates a backpressure in the airways, dilating the muscles that would otherwise collapse in the middle of the night.

From New York Times

Another possible cause is built-up backpressure from a plugged exhaust system.

From Time Magazine Archive

Worn fuel injectors or under-loaded gensets can cause a buildup of carbon in the exhaust that�s sufficient enough to increase backpressure.

From Time Magazine Archive

Depending on the positioning of the engine, power loss due to exhaust backpressure may be less than what can be achieved in a conventional installation.

From Time Magazine Archive