# feedback

/ˈfidˌbæk/ (US) · /fˈiːdbæk/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/feedback
Updated: 2026-06-19

## Senses

### 2. loud noise from speakers

noun · CEFR B2

the high, annoying sound made when a microphone is too close to a speaker.

For teachers: the screeching or howling sound caused by an acoustic loop between a microphone and a loudspeaker.

- The lead singer moved too close to the speakers and caused a loud burst of feedback.
- The sound engineer scrambled to adjust the levels after a sudden spike of feedback pierced through the monitors during the soundcheck.

Usage: Often used with the verb 'get' or 'hear'.

### 3. technical control loop

noun · CEFR C1 · Technical

the process where part of a machine's output is sent back to the input to help control it.

For teachers: the return of a portion of the output of a process or system to the input, especially when used to maintain performance or control.

- The thermostat uses a feedback loop to keep the room at a steady temperature.
- The biological system relies on a complex negative feedback mechanism to regulate hormone levels and maintain internal homeostasis.

Usage: Commonly used in the phrases 'positive feedback' and 'negative feedback'.

Teaching tip: In technical contexts, 'positive feedback' often refers to a self-reinforcing loop that can lead to instability, which is different from the everyday meaning of 'praise'.

### 4. to provide information

verb · CEFR B2 · Academic · Formal

to give information or opinions back to someone about a project or performance.

For teachers: to provide evaluative information or report results back to a person or system.

- The manager promised to feedback the results of the survey to the staff next week.
- The researchers will feedback their findings to the local community before publishing the final report in a peer-reviewed journal.

Usage: Often used with the preposition 'to' or 'on'.

Teaching tip: This verb use is common in corporate and educational settings but can sound overly formal in casual conversation.

## Examples

- The teacher gave me positive feedback on my essay.
- We are collecting customer feedback to help us design a more user-friendly mobile application.
- Constructive feedback remains a cornerstone of professional development, as it allows employees to align their individual performance with the broader strategic goals of the organization.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.