backdrop
noun
back·drop
ˈbak-ˌdräp 
1
: a painted cloth hung across the rear of a stage
2
backdrop
transitive verb
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
Given the themes of mental illness and its treatments, those who follow meditation may note the allusion to the Blue Sky practice, where thoughts and emotions are seen as passing clouds against the backdrop of a constant, unchanging blue sky that represents the mind.
—
Literary Hub, 2 Feb. 2026
Its assortment of recollections consists, for the most part, of first-hand accounts from residents seated at acute angles from the interview camera against colorful backdrops.
—Siddhant Adlakha, Variety, 1 Feb. 2026
For decades, the concrete building known for its Brutalist design has served as a trusty backdrop for public rallies, political protests and spirited demonstrations.
—Susannah Bryan, Sun Sentinel, 1 Feb. 2026
Rather than styling these eye-catching picks with, say, a gold-lamé number, nod at the ’80s in a more contemporary way with oversized blazers, pleated pants, relaxed button-downs, and cigarette jeans; these baubles stand out against a more understated backdrop.
—Jake Henry Smith, Glamour, 1 Feb. 2026
See All Example Sentences for backdrop
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Literary Hub, 2 Feb. 2026
Its assortment of recollections consists, for the most part, of first-hand accounts from residents seated at acute angles from the interview camera against colorful backdrops.
—Siddhant Adlakha, Variety, 1 Feb. 2026
For decades, the concrete building known for its Brutalist design has served as a trusty backdrop for public rallies, political protests and spirited demonstrations.
—Susannah Bryan, Sun Sentinel, 1 Feb. 2026
Rather than styling these eye-catching picks with, say, a gold-lamé number, nod at the ’80s in a more contemporary way with oversized blazers, pleated pants, relaxed button-downs, and cigarette jeans; these baubles stand out against a more understated backdrop.
—Jake Henry Smith, Glamour, 1 Feb. 2026
See All Example Sentences for backdrop
Cite this Entry
“Backdrop.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/backdrop. Accessed 2 Feb. 2026.
Copy CitationKids Definition
backdrop
noun
back·drop
ˈbak-ˌdräp
1
: a painted cloth hung across the rear of a stage
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