Backwash: meaning, definitions and examples

🌊

Add to dictionary

backwash

[ˈbækˌwɑːʃ ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Noun}

water flow

Backwash refers to the flow of water that returns to the sea after a wave breaks on the shore. It is the backward motion of water as it drains away from the beach, often pulling sand and debris along with it. Backwash can affect the shape of the shoreline over time due to its erosive properties. In a broader context, it can also describe the impact or repercussions of an action, especially in a social or political sense.

Synonyms

rebound, reflux, retreat.

Examples of usage

The backwash from the waves eroded the sand dunes.
After the tide went out, there was a noticeable backwash that reshaped the beach.
The backwash of public opinion can influence policy decisions.

^{Context #2 | Verb}

withdraw water

To backwash means to flow backward, particularly regarding water returning from a surface like a beach. In more technical contexts, it refers to the process of reversing the flow in filtering systems to remove accumulated dirt and debris. This action ensures that water systems remain clear and functional, optimizing their performance over time.

Synonyms

pull back, reverse flow, withdraw.

Examples of usage

We need to backwash the filter to clear out any blockages.
The river seemed to backwash after the recent storms, changing its course.
Backwashing the pool filter is crucial for maintaining water clarity.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

The term 'backwash' comes from the combination of 'back' and 'wash', referring to the returning motion of water.
It has been used in English since the early 19th century, initially relating specifically to the action of waves.
Originally, the word was more prevalent in nautical contexts before becoming popular in everyday language.

Science

Backwash plays an important role in coastal erosion, helping to reshape shorelines over time.
In fluids, backwash can influence sediment distribution, as the returning water often carries sand and debris.
In circulation patterns, backwash can be observed in rivers where water flows back to the source due to various tributaries.

Pop Culture

The term is often used in surfing culture to describe the unpredictable water movement caused by waves breaking.
Backwash appears frequently in sports commentary, especially when discussing the impact of water in pools or oceans.
In popular music, themes of returning or reflecting, similar to backwash, can be found in lyrics that engage with nostalgia.

Literature

Backwash is metaphorically used in poetry to signify the consequences of actions returning like waves, adding depth to emotions.
In novels, characters may experience emotional backwash, where past decisions or feelings return to affect the present.
Classic literature often employs the imagery of waves and water to express the inevitability of returning to one's roots, like backwash.

Psychology

The concept of backwash can metaphorically represent how past experiences impact current emotions and behaviors.
In psychology, it's similar to the idea of cognitive backwash, where learning outcomes influence educational practices.
Therapists may utilize the idea of emotional backwash to help clients understand the relationship between past and present feelings.

Translations

Translations of the word "backwash" in other languages:

🇵🇹 refluxo

🇮🇳 बैकवॉश

🇩🇪 Rückfluss

🇮🇩 aliran balik

🇺🇦 зворотний потік

🇵🇱 cofka

🇯🇵 バックウォッシュ

🇫🇷 reflux

🇪🇸 retroceso

🇹🇷 geri akış

🇰🇷 역류

🇸🇦 تدفق عكسي

🇨🇿 zpětný tok

🇸🇰 spätný tok

🇨🇳 回流

🇸🇮 povratni tok

🇮🇸 afturflæði

🇰🇿 кері ағым

🇬🇪 უკანონება

🇦🇿 geri axın

🇲🇽 retroceso

Word Frequency Rank

At rank #29,904, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.

...
29901 gob
29902 indescribably
29903 revile
29904 backwash
29905 photocopied
29906 confusingly
29907 gunning
...