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

As for Workday, shares have slumped since the end of February, when better-than-expected earnings were overshadowed by weak guidance and a disappointing year-end subscription backlog.

From Barron's

However, the scheme is currently dealing with large backlogs, with stories of people having to give up work due to problems accessing help.

From BBC

She said the new system of courts had already "halved backlogs and resolved cases months faster in our pilot areas" with "more children feeling heard".

From BBC

Many shipments are now being canceled before being loaded on ships, creating a backlog, Verloop said.

From Los Angeles Times

The housing shortage, overcrowded prisons, high drug deaths, delayed ferry and road building projects and the backlog of cases in the NHS were among their complaints.

From BBC

Related Words

• inventory
• stockpile