back matter

noun

: matter following the main text of a book

Example Sentences

A list of geographical names appears in the back matter of the dictionary.
Recent Examples on the Web The text and stock photos will appeal to older children, but there's also back matter that dives deeper into each type of dormancy. Star Tribune, 11 Mar. 2021 Tucked away in the back matter, there’s a tragic coda. Constance Grady, Vox, 24 June 2019

These example sentences are selected automatically from various online news sources to reflect current usage of the word 'back matter.' Views expressed in the examples do not represent the opinion of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

Word History

First Known Use

circa 1922, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of back matter was circa 1922

Dictionary Entries Near back matter

Cite this Entry

“Back matter.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/back%20matter. Accessed 27 Mar. 2023.

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