backfire
[ bak-fahyuhr ]
/ ˈbækˌfaɪər /
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verb (used without object), back·fired, back·fir·ing.
noun
SYNONYMS FOR backfire
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The rainy weather could not ________ my elated spirits on my graduation day.
Words nearby backfire
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Based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2021
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British Dictionary definitions for backfire
backfire
/ (ˌbækˈfaɪə) /
verb (intr)
(of an internal-combustion engine) to emit a loud noise as a result of an explosion in the inlet manifold or exhaust system
(of an endeavour, plan, etc) to have an unwanted effect on its perpetratorhis plans backfired on him
to start a controlled fire in order to halt an advancing forest or prairie fire by creating a barren area
noun
(in an internal-combustion engine)
- an explosion of unburnt gases in the exhaust system
- a premature explosion in a cylinder or inlet manifold
a controlled fire started to create a barren area that will halt an advancing forest or prairie fire
Collins English Dictionary - Complete & Unabridged 2012 Digital Edition
© William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins
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