backlog

American  

[bak-lawg, -log] / ˈbækˌlɔg, -ˌlɒg /

noun

1. a reserve or accumulation, as of stock, work, or business.

   a backlog of business orders.

   Synonyms:

   reservoir, cache, fund, store, stock, supply

2. a large log at the back of a hearth to keep up a fire.

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verb (used with object)

backlogged, backlogging

1. to hold in reserve, as for future handling or repair.

2. to enter and acknowledge (an order) for future shipment.

verb (used without object)

backlogged, backlogging

1. to accumulate in a backlog.

   Orders are starting to backlog faster than we can process them.

backlog British  

/ ˈbækˌlɒɡ /

noun

1. an accumulation of uncompleted work, unsold stock, etc, to be dealt with

2. a large log at the back of a fireplace

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Etymology

Origin of backlog

First recorded in 1675–85; back ¹ + log ¹

Example Sentences

The ES8 model has sold better than expected with the current backlog likely to support strong volume growth into 2Q, he adds.

From The Wall Street Journal

The supply chain for natural-gas-fired power plant equipment is also backlogged for years.

From The Wall Street Journal

Executives expressed a bullish outlook on continued deal flow in 2026, noting the potential for more initial public offerings and that its backlog of anticipated future deal revenue stands at a four-year high.

From Barron's

Back in December, Rocket Lab won the biggest contract in the company’s history, adding as much as $805 million to its backlog, which stood at about $1.1 billion as of October.

From MarketWatch

The company’s backlog recently increased 4.6% year over year to a record $34 billion, equivalent to approximately four years of revenue.

From Barron's

Related Words

• inventory
• stockpile