back-talk

[ bak-tawk ]
/ ˈbækˌtɔk /
SEE SYNONYMS FOR back-talk ON THESAURUS.COM

verb (used with or without object)

to answer back.

Origin of back-talk

First recorded in 1855–60

Words nearby back-talk

back-pedal, back-seat driver, back-slapping, back-stabbing, back-street, back-talk, back-to-back, back-to-basics, back-trail, back-up light, backache

Definition for back-talk (2 of 2)

back talk

noun

an impudent response; impudence.

Origin of back talk

First recorded in 1855–60

Words related to back-talk

assert, affirm, object, revolt, insist, fight, resist, maintain, oppose, demonstrate, declare, contend, attest, squawk, avow, predicate, blast, combat, profess, avouch

Example sentences from the Web for back-talk

  • And Art was always good and biddable with her; never gave any back-talk, or was contrary.

    Candle and Crib |K. F. Purdon

  • The commissioner was not used to back-talk from railroaders, no matter how high their office, and he stuck to his point.

    The Modern Railroad |Edward Hungerford