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backfired

The correct spelling is backfired.

How to pronounce backfired

verb

Say it like: Bak-fir-ed

The correct spelling is backfired. (of a gun, cannon, Bunsen burner, etc.) To fire in the opposite direction, for example due to an obstruction in the barrel. For example: "His attempt to make money by importing luxury cars backfired horribly when fuel prices tripled."

Usage Examples

His attempt to make money by importing luxury cars backfired horribly when fuel prices tripled.

Definition

verb

  1. 1.(of a gun, cannon, Bunsen burner, etc.) To fire in the opposite direction, for example due to an obstruction in the barrel.
  2. 2.(of an engine) To experience a premature ignition of fuel or an ignition of exhaust gases, making a popping sound.
  3. 3.To fail in a manner that brings down further misfortune.

Similar words

Words related in meaning — check their spelling too.

View synonyms & usage examples