backing

noun

back·​ing ˈba-kiŋ How to pronounce backing (audio)
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

Examples of backing in a Sentence

The tape has an adhesive backing. The project has received financial backing from several investors.
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.
Nine of the 18 came in November or December, as well, which could provide backing to Stricklin and Florida’s decision to stand pat. Noah White, Miami Herald, 3 Oct. 2025 Israel enjoyed unmatched backing but never a NATO-style pledge. Dan Perry, MSNBC Newsweek, 3 Oct. 2025 The project also has the backing of Spanish broadcaster RTVE, Movistar Plus+ and funding from national film agency ICAA and the Madrid region. Anna Marie De La Fuente, Variety, 3 Oct. 2025 Carpenter’s role on the record isn’t to just throw in some backing vocals. Rolling Stone, 3 Oct. 2025 See All Example Sentences for backing

Word History

First Known Use

1745, in the meaning defined at sense 2a

Time Traveler
The first known use of backing was in 1745

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Cite this Entry

“Backing.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/backing. Accessed 6 Oct. 2025.

Kids Definition

backing

noun
back·​ing ˈbak-iŋ How to pronounce backing (audio)
1
: something forming a back
2
b
: musical accompaniment

Medical Definition

backing

noun
back·​ing ˈbak-iŋ How to pronounce backing (audio)
: the metal portion of a dental crown, bridge, or similar structure to which a porcelain or plastic tooth facing is attached

More from Merriam-Webster on backing

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