Rude or disrespectful speech in response to someone, especially to an authority figure like a parent or teacher.
From 'back' (Old English bæc) + 'talk' (Old English tæcan, to show or teach). The compound emerged in American English in the early 20th century, meaning literally to 'talk back' rudely.
Every generation thinks the next one gives more backtalk, but this word perfectly captures the power dynamic of language—it's defined from the authority figure's perspective, so 'talking back' is inherently viewed as disrespectful rather than merely responsive.
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