1. illegal payments made to someone in return for help or favors, especially in business or politics
Usage: informal
2. a strong backward movement or reaction

Examples

• The construction company was investigated for giving kickbacks to city officials.
• Several politicians were arrested for accepting kickbacks from lobbyists.
• The gun’s kickback knocked him off balance.
• There was a strong kickback from the community against the new policy.
• The scandal involved millions of dollars in kickbacks over several years.
• She felt the kickback from the power tool when it hit the metal.
• The CEO resigned after evidence of kickbacks came to light.