backlash — ODE

backlash /ˈbaklaʃ

▸ noun

1 [in singular] a strong negative reaction by a large number of people, especially to a social or political development:

the backlash against the law marks the strongest show of dissent since they were first elected

despite the backlash, he is unrepentant about his decisions

the tweet prompted a backlash and accusations of homophobia.

2 [mass noun] recoil arising between parts of a mechanism.

▪ degree of play between parts of a mechanism:

typical gearbox backlash in these systems is 2°.