backstory

noun

back·​story ˈbak-ˌstȯr-ē How to pronounce backstory (audio)
: a story that tells what led up to the main story or plot (as of a film)

Examples of backstory in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
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Superfans of the Great White Way might be familiar with the show’s plot and the production’s backstory, but most of us are taking our seat with nary a glance at even Wikipedia (don’t, too many major spoilers). Rod Stafford Hagwood, Sun Sentinel, 11 June 2025 However, others argued that the backstory of her sister and mom’s relationship should be taken into consideration for why her sibling may be reluctant to contribute to the personalized gift. Latoya Gayle, People.com, 8 June 2025 With Season 2’s cliffhanger leaving Season 3 wide open, there’s so much more room for Tillman to explore his character’s backstory. Matt Minton, Variety, 7 June 2025 In the footage, Hazel is shivering and shy—but the caption revealed that the man was able to locate her owners and learn a bit about her backstory. Maria Morava, MSNBC Newsweek, 6 June 2025 See All Example Sentences for backstory

Word History

First Known Use

1982, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of backstory was in 1982

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Cite this Entry

“Backstory.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/backstory. Accessed 19 Jun. 2025.

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