backing

1 of 2

noun

back·​ing ˈba-kiŋ 

plural backings

1

: something forming a back

a tape with adhesive backing

2

a

: support, aid

financial backing

… sectarian or ethnic warlords battling for territory, with the backing of sponsors from neighboring countries.

—Aparisim Ghosh

b

: the music that is played along with someone who is singing or playing the main tune : the music that accompanies the lead musician

… she plans to record the songs with the backing of an orchestra.

—Cortney Harding

c

: endorsement especially of a warrant by a magistrate

backing

2 of 2

present participle of back entry 4

Synonyms of backing

Noun

• support
• assistance
• assist
• help
• boost

Examples of backing in a Sentence

Noun

The tape has an adhesive backing.

The project has received financial backing from several investors.

Recent Examples on the Web

Noun

An electoral opponent would have allowed voters to weigh in on Martin’s backing of this unpopular mayor. — The Editorial Board, Chicago Tribune, 1 Nov. 2026

On Monday, Macklmore kicked off the Free Palestine Tour in Dublin with special guest appearances from Hozier, Kneecap, and Boega, the backing band that dropped out of Sheeran’s tour in solidarity with Macklemore. — Charisma Madarang, Rolling Stone, 30 Oct. 2026

Since 2002, the seat has been occupied by Senator John Cornyn, who ran for reelection with the backing of the Republican establishment and a sizable war chest. — Aidan McLaughlin, Vanity Fair, 30 Oct. 2026

Folk and country are headlined by first-rate singer-songwriters backing energized new albums. — Shauna Lyon, New Yorker, 30 Oct. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

Noun

1745, in the meaning defined at sense 2a

Rhymes for backing

• blacking
• clacking
• cracking
• hacking
• jacking
• lacking
• packing
• racking
• sacking
• slacking
• smacking
• snacking

Kids Definition

backing

noun

back·​ing ˈbak-iŋ 

1

: something forming a back

2

a

: support entry 2, aid

b

: musical accompaniment

c

: endorsement sense 3, approval

Medical Definition

backing

noun

back·​ing ˈbak-iŋ 

: the metal portion of a dental crown, bridge, or similar structure to which a porcelain or plastic tooth facing is attached