backfire

[bak-fahy^uhr]

verb (used without object)

backfired, backfiring 

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. 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

Flashy diplomatic overtures to Moscow appeared to be backfiring.

From Los Angeles Times

Critics within the commission warn that abandoning nonpartisan redistricting principles could set a dangerous precedent and that Republicans nationwide have more gerrymandering opportunities than Democrats, potentially backfiring if other states follow California’s example.

From Los Angeles Times

But, at long last, the result didn’t backfire.

From Los Angeles Times

But sometimes the effort backfires: In trying to maximize their seats, a party spreads its voters too thin and fails to make some districts safe enough.

From Salon

So far, most of the efforts at a cover-up have backfired.

From Salon

Related Words

• fail 
• flop