backmasking

noun

back·​mask·​ing ˈbak-ˌma-skiŋ 

plural backmaskings

: the encoding of audio materials (such as words conveying a secret message) on a recording in such a way that they can only be heard and understood when the recording is played backwards

Of the new bills, Rhode Island's is unique in that it calls for several different labels, including one that says "parental warning: this record contains backmasking that makes a verbal statement when this program is played backwards" …

—Richard Harrington, Washington Post, 14 Mar. 1990

called also backward masking

Word History

First Known Use

1982, in the meaning defined above

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