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

For a finale shot of the Next Gen NYC cast, what backdrop could be better than the span of the Brooklyn Bridge? — Adriane Quinlan, Curbed, 29 Sep. 2026

Managing unpredictability against the shifting backdrop of solution delivery develops new executive muscle. — Mike Trkay, Forbes.com, 29 Sep. 2026

Tensions are rising ahead of high-stakes vote The election in October will be held against a backdrop of high political tensions as Vucic’s populists seek to remain in office despite widespread popular discontent. — Jovana Gec, Los Angeles Times, 28 Sep. 2026

The downward moves come as investors continue to monitor inflationary pressures and the likelihood of further interest rate hikes from the Federal Reserve against a backdrop of surging government bond yields. — Hugh Leask, CNBC, 28 Sep. 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