backstretch

noun

back·​stretch ˈbak-ˌstrech 

: the side opposite the homestretch on a racecourse

Examples of backstretch in a Sentence

The horses are in the backstretch.

Recent Examples on the Web

Journalism trailed in last for just over half the race before making his move toward the end of the backstretch. — Bill Center, San Diego Union-Tribune, 19 July 2026

Last down the backstretch, lightning struck as this stretch-running son of Curlin thundered home with powerful strides and won the Kentucky Derby at odds of 23 to 1 under a brilliant ride from jockey Jose Ortiz. — Danny Brewer, Forbes.com, 9 July 2026

About 350 horses are typically housed in the backstretch, the association said. — Julia Jacobo, ABC News, 17 June 2026

The casino said around 350 horses are usually housed in the backstretch area. — Jordan Freiman, CBS News, 16 June 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1831, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for backstretch

• etch
• fetch
• fletch
• ketch
• sketch
• stretch
• vetch
• wretch

Kids Definition

backstretch

noun

back·​stretch -ˌstrech 

-ˈstrech

: the side of a racetrack that is opposite the part between the last turn and the finish line