pushback

noun

push·​back ˈpu̇sh-ˌbak How to pronounce pushback (audio)
1
: the action of forcing an object backward
2
: resistance or opposition in response to a policy or regulation especially by those affected

Examples of pushback 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.
The political pushback tied to the project prompted Oracle to deliver a force majeure notice to its backer Blue Owl Capital last month. — Seema Mody, CNBC, 27 Oct. 2026 Commissioner Pamela Beasley-Pittman says she’s gotten pushback from neighbors in her district who use e-bikes to commute to and from work and school. — Susannah Bryan, Sun Sentinel, 27 Oct. 2026 But South Florida cities that signed agreements last year have faced strong pushback from local residents and activists, including Miami and Doral. — Syra Ortiz Blanes, Miami Herald, 27 Oct. 2026 Those talks collapsed over price and worries about antitrust pushback, neither of which hold true today. — Rohan Goswami, semafor.com, 26 Oct. 2026 See All Example Sentences for pushback

Word History

First Known Use

1942, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of pushback was in 1942

Rhymes for pushback

See All Rhymes for pushback

Browse Nearby Words

push-away
pushback
pushball
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Pushback.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/pushback. Accessed 1 Nov. 2026.

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