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

He said the party would prioritise tackling the high-risk maintenance backlog and undertake urgent repairs to promote the safety of both staff and patients, assessing the NHS estate on a case-by-case basis.

From BBC • Apr. 2, 2026

"We already have a backlog of renewable energy projects that are waiting for grid connections," and the timelines are potentially "much shorter" than for fossil fuel projects.

From Barron's • Apr. 1, 2026

As of the end of last year, Rocket Lab had a $1.85 billion backlog, up 73% from 2024.

From MarketWatch • Mar. 31, 2026

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

From Los Angeles Times • Mar. 29, 2026

Once I set up the solar panels, I fired up the oxygenator and let it work through the backlog of C02 that the regulator had stored up.

From "The Martian" by Andy Weir

Related Words

• inventory
• stockpile