backfire . backfire {v.} To misfire; to have a reverse effect from what was intended. Mimi's gossip about the Head of the Department backfired wizen people began to mistrust her. Categories: add yours {v.} Source: A Dictionary of American Idioms by A. Makkai, M.T. Boatner, J.E. Gates © 2024 To section: B Subscribe to: American IdiomsIdioms feedEnglish languageHome page and general feed Discuss