feedback
UK[ˈfiːdbæk]US[ˈfiːdbæk]
n
Information or statements of opinion about something, such as a new product or a performance, that tell you if it is successful or liked
n
The unpleasant high-pitched noise produced by an amplifier when sound from its loudspeaker is picked up by its microphone
Morpheme Breakdown
feed
back
feed
to give
back
returning
Etymology
The term 'feedback' is a modern compound formed from two native English words, 'feed' and 'back'. It originated in the early 20th century, first used in the field of electronics and control systems to describe the process where a portion of the output signal of an amplifier is returned to its input. The literal logic is clear: to "feed" information or a signal "back" to its source. This concept was then metaphorically extended into general use, applying the same principle of returning information about a result to modify or improve future performance, thus creating its dominant modern meaning related to evaluative responses.
Analysis
Structure: feed (to give) + back (returning)
- feed: From Old English fēdan (to give food, nourish), of Germanic origin. In this compound, it functions as a verb root meaning "to supply or provide."
- back: From Old English bæc, of Germanic origin. In this compound, it functions as an adverb meaning "in return" or "to the original source."
Examples
The teacher gave me some helpful feedback on my essay.
We encourage customers to provide feedback on our services.
The loud screech was caused by microphone feedback.