verb Download 🔗Share (of a gun, cannon, Bunsen burner, etc.) To fire in the opposite direction, for example due to an obstruction in the barrel. Examples : "The old cannon backfired, sending smoke and debris towards the crowd instead of the target. " technical machine weapon direction Chat with AIVocabulary GamePractice Reading
verb Download 🔗Share (of an engine) To experience a premature ignition of fuel or an ignition of exhaust gases, making a popping sound. Examples : "The old car coughed and backfired loudly as I tried to start it. " vehicle technology machine sound fuel Chat with AIVocabulary GamePractice Reading
verb Download 🔗Share To fail in a manner that brings down further misfortune. Examples : "His attempt to make money by importing luxury cars backfired horribly when fuel prices tripled." outcome disaster action event negative Chat with AIVocabulary GamePractice Reading