backlog

1 of 2

noun

back·​log ˈbak-ˌlȯg How to pronounce backlog (audio)
-ˌläg
1
: a large log at the back of a hearth fire
2
: an accumulation of tasks unperformed or materials not processed
a backlog of court cases

backlog

2 of 2

verb

backlogged; backlogging; backlogs

Examples of backlog in a Sentence

Noun We have a huge backlog of orders to be filled.
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Noun
There was a backlog of unfiled returns, and with many offices still not operating at full capacity, securing an in-person appointment was difficult—and reaching a real person on the phone was almost impossible. Kelly Phillips Erb, Forbes.com, 30 Aug. 2025 With more than $100 million in secured backlog, INCORAGE continues to prove that principled execution can drive both reliability and growth. Daniel Fusch, USA Today, 28 Aug. 2025
Verb
His court date was scheduled for 2027, a date far in the future because of the nation’s immigration courts backlog. Lawrence Mower, Miami Herald, 26 Aug. 2025 For the 2024 tax season, Collins urged the IRS to make clearing up its identity theft backlog a higher priority. Michelle Singletary, Washington Post, 12 Jan. 2024 See All Example Sentences for backlog

Word History

First Known Use

Noun

1684, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Verb

1963, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of backlog was in 1684

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Cite this Entry

“Backlog.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/backlog. Accessed 5 Sep. 2025.

Kids Definition

backlog

noun
back·​log
-ˌlȯg,
-ˌläg
1
: a large log at the back of a fire in a fireplace
2
: an accumulation of tasks that have not been finished

More from Merriam-Webster on backlog

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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