backfire
|back/fire|
B2
🇺🇸
/ˈbækˌfaɪər/
🇬🇧
/ˈbækˌfaɪə/
unintended negative effect
Etymology
Etymology Information
'backfire' originates from the combination of 'back' and 'fire', where 'back' meant 'reverse' and 'fire' referred to 'ignition'.
Historical Evolution
'backfire' was first used in the context of firearms and engines, referring to a reverse explosion.
Meaning Changes
Initially, it meant 'a reverse explosion in an engine', but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'having an unintended negative effect'.
Meanings by Part of Speech
Verb 1
to have the opposite effect to what was intended, often causing harm or damage.
The plan to save money backfired, and they ended up spending more.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Idioms
Last updated: 2025/01/11 11:35