backing

noun

back·​ing ˈba-kiŋ 

plural backings

1

: something forming a back

a tape with adhesive backing

2

a

: support, aid

financial backing

… sectarian or ethnic warlords battling for territory, with the backing of sponsors from neighboring countries.

—Aparisim Ghosh

b

: the music that is played along with someone who is singing or playing the main tune : the music that accompanies the lead musician

… she plans to record the songs with the backing of an orchestra.

—Cortney Harding

c

: endorsement especially of a warrant by a magistrate

Synonyms

• abetment
• aid
• assist
• assistance
• boost
• hand
• help
• helping hand
• leg up
• lift
• support

Examples of backing in a Sentence

The tape has an adhesive backing.

The project has received financial backing from several investors.

Recent Examples on the Web

Latimer is well known in much of the district and has received the backing of former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton and key pro-Israel group the American Israel Public Affairs Committee, among others. —Jack Birle, Washington Examiner - Political News and Conservative Analysis About Congress, the President, and the Federal Government, 20 June 2024

His bogus claims of U.S. government backing were among many lies. —Jacqueline Charles, Miami Herald, 20 June 2024

Former state delegate Jay Jones, a Norfolk trial attorney who lost the Democrats’ 2021 primary for attorney general, is widely expected to run for the position again in 2025 — with the backing of former governors Ralph Northam and Terry McAuliffe. —Teo Armus, Washington Post, 19 June 2024

McCurdy claimed the backing of much of the city’s political establishment, including Mayor Buddy Dyer and the previous district commissioner Regina Hill, who remained seemingly popular despite her indictment for elder abuse. —Ryan Gillespie, Orlando Sentinel, 18 June 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1745, in the meaning defined at sense 2a

Kids Definition

backing

noun

back·​ing ˈbak-iŋ 

1

: something forming a back

2

a

: support entry 2, aid

b

: musical accompaniment

c

: endorsement sense 3, approval

Medical Definition

backing

noun

back·​ing ˈbak-iŋ 

: the metal portion of a dental crown, bridge, or similar structure to which a porcelain or plastic tooth facing is attached