backdrop

noun

back·​drop ˈbak-ˌdräp 

1

: a painted cloth hung across the rear of a stage

2

: background

backdrop transitive verb

Synonyms of backdrop

• background

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.

Recent Examples on the Web

On April 29, the loose body that lurked in the backdrop all along became lodged inside Skubal’s elbow joint in front of the world. — Cody Stavenhagen, New York Times, 22 July 2026

After more than 25 years in business, Sleepy Poet has also become the backdrop for memorable moments beyond shopping. — Evan Moore july 22, Charlotte Observer, 22 July 2026

However, transitions create uncertainty, and many Americans are evaluating AI against a backdrop of inflation, affordability concerns and concerns about economic mobility. — Gary Drenik, Forbes.com, 21 July 2026

That comes despite a more challenging macroeconomic backdrop. — Ryma Chikhoune, Footwear News, 21 July 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1866, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for backdrop

• atop
• backstop
• bebop
• blacktop
• bookshop
• clatsop
• desktop
• eavesdrop
• estop
• hardtop
• hilltop
• laptop

Kids Definition

backdrop

noun

back·​drop ˈbak-ˌdräp 

1

: a painted cloth hung across the rear of a stage

2

: background sense 1, 3a