kickback

[ kik-bak ]
/ ˈkɪkˌbæk /

noun

a percentage of income given to a person in a position of power or influence as payment for having made the income possible: usually considered improper or unethical.
a rebate, usually given secretively by a seller to a buyer or to one who influenced the buyer.
the practice of an employer or a person in a supervisory position of taking back a portion of the wages due workers.
a response, usually vigorous.
a sudden, uncontrolled movement of a machine, tool, or other device, as on starting or in striking an obstruction: A kickback from a chain saw can be dangerous.

Origin of kickback

1930–35, Americanism; noun use of verb phrase kick back

OTHER WORDS FROM kickback

an·ti·kick·back, adjective

Example sentences from the Web for kickback

British Dictionary definitions for kickback

kickback
/ (ˈkɪkˌbæk) /

noun

a strong reaction
part of an income paid to a person having influence over the size or payment of the income, esp by some illegal arrangement

verb kick back (adverb)

(intr) to have a strong reaction
(intr) (esp of a gun) to recoil
to pay a kickback to (someone)