feedback

noun

feed·​back ˈfēd-ˌbak 

1

a

: the transmission of evaluative or corrective information about an action, event, or process to the original or controlling source

also : the information so transmitted

b

: the partial reversion (see reversion sense 3a) of the effects of a process to its source or to a preceding stage

2

: the return to the input of a part of the output of a machine, system, or process (as for producing changes in an electronic circuit that improve performance or in an automatic control device that provide self-corrective action)

3

: a rumbling, whining, or whistling sound resulting from an amplified or broadcast signal (such as music or speech) that has been returned as input and retransmitted

Examples of feedback in a Sentence

The company uses customer feedback to improve its products.

He asked for some feedback from his boss.

The computer makes adjustments based on feedback from the sensors.

We were getting some feedback from the microphone.

Recent Examples on the Web

The mix had gotten somewhat clearer by the third song, which is right around the time the feedback issues started. —Ed Masley, The Arizona Republic, 22 Nov. 2024

Teachers and community members have given great feedback about Murphy, Crosset said. —Madeline Mitchell, The Enquirer, 22 Nov. 2024

Incorporate thoughtful questions into your design process, examine what customers already have to work with in their own homes, and always ask for feedback. —Cassi Hallam, Forbes, 21 Nov. 2024

In the meantime, community members can provide feedback on LMPD's crime-reduction plan via a public survey. —Killian Baarlaer, The Courier-Journal, 21 Nov. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1918, in the meaning defined at sense 2

Phrases Containing feedback

• feedback inhibition
• negative feedback
• positive feedback

Kids Definition

feedback

noun

feed·​back ˈfēd-ˌbak 

1

a

: the return to the input of a part of the output of a machine, system, or process

b

: noise resulting from the feedback of an amplified or broadcast signal

2

: the giving or sending of information or of something from which information can be obtained about the value, effect, or result of an action or process to the controlling source

also : the information or information-containing material so given or sent

Medical Definition

feedback

noun

feed·​back ˈfēd-ˌbak 

1

: the return to the input of part of the output of a machine, system, or process (as for producing changes in an electronic circuit that improve performance or in an automatic control device that provide self-corrective action)

2

a

: the partial reversion of the effects of a process to its source or to a preceding stage

b

: the return to a point of origin of evaluative or corrective information about an action or process

patient feedback was solicited

also : the information so transmitted