backdrop

noun

back·​drop ˈbak-ˌdräp How to pronounce backdrop (audio)
Synonyms of backdrop
1
: a painted cloth hung across the rear of a stage
2
: background
backdrop transitive verb

Synonyms of backdrop

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Examples of backdrop in a Sentence

The mountains provided a perfect backdrop for the wedding photos. The novel unfolds against a backdrop of war. The city provides the backdrop for the love story.
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Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
This new space contrasts a bright, vivid backdrop with dark furnishings, alluding to the brand’s edgy, crisp designs. — Los Angeles Times, 8 July 2026 The striking image peers through the Milky Way at millions of multi-colored stars appearing against a backdrop of galaxies. — Eric Lagatta, USA Today, 7 July 2026 Against this backdrop, luxury brands are looking at the big picture and recognizing the value of emotional engagement. — Laia Farran Graves, Forbes.com, 7 July 2026 Why Slowmaxxing Is Gaining Traction Now The economic backdrop matters here too. — Allison Palmer july 7, Charlotte Observer, 7 July 2026 See All Example Sentences for backdrop

Word History

First Known Use

1866, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of backdrop was in 1866

Rhymes for backdrop

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Browse Nearby Words

back draft
backdrop
back East
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Cite this Entry

“Backdrop.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/backdrop. Accessed 9 Jul. 2026.

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Kids Definition

backdrop

noun
back·​drop ˈbak-ˌdräp How to pronounce backdrop (audio)
1
: a painted cloth hung across the rear of a stage
2
: background sense 1, 3a

More from Merriam-Webster on backdrop

Nglish: Translation of backdrop for Spanish Speakers

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