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
Ironically, the football game itself is just a backdrop, the real experience lies beyond the field.
—
Okla Jones, Essence, 16 Oct. 2025
London said she was inspired to run as a first-time candidate because of the current social and political backdrop.
—Rebecca Noel, Charlotte Observer, 15 Oct. 2025
Rachel Fuller’s orchestral version of The Who album, recorded by the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra, is the backdrop for this production, which is costumed by British fashion house Paul Smith.
—Greg Evans, Deadline, 15 Oct. 2025
Where to Eat With the help of chef Dave Cavilla, Feather and Wedge (named after a tool and technique used in quarrying to split stone) serves up fare that highlights local ingredients set against the backdrop of Rockport’s harbor.
—Megan Margulies, Travel + Leisure, 14 Oct. 2025
See All Example Sentences for backdrop
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to
show current usage.
Read More
Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors.
Send us feedback.
Okla Jones, Essence, 16 Oct. 2025
London said she was inspired to run as a first-time candidate because of the current social and political backdrop.
—Rebecca Noel, Charlotte Observer, 15 Oct. 2025
Rachel Fuller’s orchestral version of The Who album, recorded by the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra, is the backdrop for this production, which is costumed by British fashion house Paul Smith.
—Greg Evans, Deadline, 15 Oct. 2025
Where to Eat With the help of chef Dave Cavilla, Feather and Wedge (named after a tool and technique used in quarrying to split stone) serves up fare that highlights local ingredients set against the backdrop of Rockport’s harbor.
—Megan Margulies, Travel + Leisure, 14 Oct. 2025
See All Example Sentences for backdrop
Cite this Entry
“Backdrop.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/backdrop. Accessed 20 Oct. 2025.
Copy CitationKids Definition
backdrop
noun
back·drop
ˈbak-ˌdräp
1
: a painted cloth hung across the rear of a stage
Love words? Need even more definitions?
Merriam-Webster unabridged
Share