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backfiring

The correct spelling is backfiring.

How to pronounce backfiring

verb

Say it like: Bak-fir-ing

The correct spelling is backfiring. (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.

Meanings

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.

noun

  1. 1.A failure that leads to further misfortune.

Similar words

Words related in meaning — check their spelling too.

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