backfire
verb (used without object)
(of an internal-combustion engine) to have a loud, premature explosion in the intake manifold.
backfiring
-
present participleof backfire.present participle
A verb form that is used in progressive verb constructions and may also function as a modifier or a gerund.
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
But I also feel like there’s a huge risk of that backfiring.
From Salon ● Jun. 22, 2026
Still, one of O’Leary’s targets in Utah said the Chinese allegations are already backfiring.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Jun. 14, 2026
Nestlé tweaked its portfolio, but investors say some acquisitions were a distraction, backfiring as the company expanded into non-core areas.
From Barron's ● Jun. 10, 2026
China's approach to urging people to have children also risks backfiring if people feel the government is being "too intrusive" about what is deeply personal choice, she said.
From BBC ● Dec. 31, 2025
“I mean, because of what happened in the rebellion. With the jabberjays backfiring on the Capitol and all.”
From "Catching Fire" by Suzanne Collins
