backdrop

noun

back·​drop ˈbak-ˌdräp How to pronounce backdrop (audio)
Synonyms of backdropnext
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
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.
The climax of the film features the two reuniting amid the backdrop of the city’s famous cherry blossoms — which proved to be one of the more anxiety-inducing shots to get. Aaron Couch, HollywoodReporter, 8 Jan. 2026 Strawberry-blonde woods, warm golden fixtures, and textured beige carpeting create a calm backdrop for floor-to-ceiling windows or sliding glass doors that open to the water. Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 8 Jan. 2026 Against that backdrop, Nick was reportedly being treated for schizophrenia before the deaths of his parents. Danielle Bacher, PEOPLE, 8 Jan. 2026 This is all being played out amid the backdrop of Netflix’s audacious swoop for WBD, which will give Netflix control over two of the world’s biggest streaming services. Max Goldbart, Deadline, 8 Jan. 2026 See All Example Sentences for backdrop

Word History

First Known Use

1866, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of backdrop was in 1866

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Cite this Entry

“Backdrop.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/backdrop. Accessed 9 Jan. 2026.

Kids Definition

backdrop

noun
back·​drop ˈbak-ˌdräp How to pronounce backdrop (audio)
1
: a painted cloth hung across the rear of a stage
2

More from Merriam-Webster on backdrop

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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