backing

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

Synonyms

• abetment
• aid
• assist
• assistance
• boost
• hand
• help
• helping hand
• leg up
• lift
• support

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

Look at companies like Renew Power in India, which has grown from a small startup into one of the country’s largest renewable energy companies with over 12 GW of operational capacity and backing from global investors like Goldman Sachs. —Rob Kaplan, Forbes.com, 29 Apr. 2025

The bill ultimately passed the House with unanimous support from Republicans, and the backing of 46 of 215 Democrats. —Nik Popli, Time, 29 Apr. 2025

Cornyn has faced some criticism for his support of providing financial aid to Ukraine in its war against Russia and his backing of a bipartisan gun control bill following a 2022 school shooting in Uvalde, Texas. —Mabinty Quarshie, The Washington Examiner, 28 Apr. 2025

The chairs are stackable for easy storage during the off-season, and the woven rattan backing is comfortable, durable, and comes in three color options, including black, blue, and gray. —Rachel Trujillo, People.com, 27 Apr. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

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