backfire
IPA: bˈækfaɪr
noun
- A premature explosion in the cylinder of a gas or oil engine during the exhaust or the compression stroke, tending to drive the piston in the wrong direction.
- An explosion in the exhaust passages of an internal combustion engine.
- An explosion in other equipment.
- (firefighting) Alternative spelling of back fire [A small, controlled fire set in the path of a larger uncontrolled fire, in order to limit the spread of the large fire by removing its fuel.]
verb
- (of a gun, cannon, Bunsen burner, etc.) To fire in the opposite direction, for example due to an obstruction in the barrel.
- (of a reciprocating engine) To experience a premature ignition of fuel or an ignition of exhaust gases, making a popping sound.
- To fail in a manner that brings down further misfortune.