backlash

1. A suddenly reversed or backward motion, such as of a rope or elastic band when it snaps under tension. (countable, uncountable)
2. A negative reaction, objection or outcry, especially of a violent or abrupt nature. (countable, figuratively, uncountable) · The public backlash to the proposal was quick and insistent.
3. The looseness through which one part of connected machinery, such as a wheel, gear, piston, or screw, can be moved without moving the connected parts, or a measurement of the distance moved thereby; either intentional (as allowance) or unintentional (from error or wear). (countable, uncountable)
4. The jarring or reflex motion caused in badly fitting machinery by irregularities in velocity or a reverse of motion. (countable, uncountable)

Plural backlashes