1. a sudden rush of air or flame that occurs when oxygen is introduced into a fire that has been starved of air, often causing an explosion
Usage: common in firefighting and fire safety contexts
2. an unexpected and undesirable consequence or effect that results from an action or decision
Usage: figurative use

Examples

• Firefighters must be aware of the danger of backdraft when entering a burning building.
• Opening the door too quickly can cause a backdraft that spreads the fire rapidly.
• The policy had an unexpected backdraft that hurt the very people it was meant to help.
• The company's aggressive marketing campaign created a backdraft of negative publicity.
• Ventilation systems are designed to prevent dangerous backdrafts in industrial settings.