Backlash - Definition and Overview

Backlash has meaning in both socio-political and engineering contexts.

Socio-Political Backlash

In general backlash is a somewhat popular extreme negative reaction against something which had gained popularity, prominence, or influence. As such backlash is usually against something new or liberal, the old guard lashes back at something new. Occasionally movements are labelled backlashes against a movement which failed to gain much influence or prominence, in which case the label is simply an attempt to give the conservative movement credence. Sometimes it may be a manner of opinion, many feminists and other social liberals felt there was a conservative backlash during the 1980s, while others would say that feminism never was strong enough to be lashed back at.

However, there are several specific things related to backlash:

• Backlash (wrestling) is an annual WWE event.
• is a book by noted feminist Susan Faludi
• The Great Liberal Backlash of 2003 is a political term in regards to increased liberal opposition to conservatism
• Anti-gay backlash is opposition to newly passed gay rights or newly created visibility among gay people or communities. See: Anita Bryant.

Engineering Backlash

In mechanical engineering, backlash is purposeful clearance between mating components:

• Gearing backlash is backlash between mating gear teeth.
• Gear couplings use backlash to allow for angular misalignment