backwash

Meanings

Noun

• The backward flow of water from oars or propeller or breaking waves.
• The similar flow of air from an aircraft engine.
• The result or consequence of an event; an aftermath.
• The saliva, spit or food particles that have flowed back into a drink after someone has drunk from it.
• The situation where economic growth in one area harms other areas by attracting people and business away from those areas.

Verb

• To operate a water filter in the reverse direction in order to clean it.
• To affect with backwash.
• To clean the oil from wool after combing.

Origin

• back + wash