back channel

noun

Synonyms of back channelnext
: a secret, unofficial, or irregular means of communication
back-channel
ˈbak-ˌcha-nᵊl How to pronounce back channel (audio)
adjective

Examples of back channel in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Even Oman, long Tehran’s back channel to the West, was struck. — Mohammed Sergie, semafor.com, 6 Mar. 2026 Maybe assets are being mobilized through back channels. — Brady Knox, The Washington Examiner, 14 Mar. 2026 Do not encourage back channels, and eliminate any patterns that are driven by urgency, fear or avoidance. — Leeza Carlone Steindorf, Forbes.com, 25 June 2026 Behind the scenes, their panic and confusion are revealed in the many back channels companies are building to the White House. — The Week Us, TheWeek, 28 Jan. 2026 See All Example Sentences for back channel

Word History

First Known Use

1975, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of back channel was in 1975

Rhymes for back channel

See All Rhymes for back channel

Browse Nearby Words

backchain
back channel
backchat
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Back channel.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/back%20channel. Accessed 7 Jul. 2026.

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