Merriam-Webster Logo
SINCE 1828
Menu
dictionary thesaurus

backstaff

noun

Definition of backstaff 

: an instrument similar to a cross-staff but fitted with a reflector and formerly used for taking the altitudes of heavenly bodies

Love words?

You must — there are over 200,000 words in our free online dictionary, but you are looking for one that’s only in the Merriam-Webster Unabridged Dictionary.

Start your free trial today and get unlimited access to America's largest dictionary, with:

  • More than 250,000 words that aren't in our free dictionary
  • Expanded definitions, etymologies, and usage notes
  • Advanced search features
  • Ad free!

First Known Use of backstaff

1627, in the meaning defined above

History and Etymology for backstaff

back entry 1 + staff; from the position of the observer, whose back is turned toward the sun when using it

Keep scrolling for more

Learn More about backstaff

Dictionary Entries near backstaff

backspread

backspring

backstabbing

backstaff

backstage

backstage pass

backstager

Statistics for backstaff

Look-up Popularity

Time Traveler for backstaff

The first known use of backstaff was in 1627

See more words from the same year

Comments on backstaff

What made you want to look up backstaff? Please tell us where you read or heard it (including the quote, if possible).

Show Comments  Hide Comments 

WORD OF THE DAY

habiliment

characteristic trappings or dress

Get Word of the Day daily email!

Test Your Vocabulary

Name that Food Quiz

  • alt-573b465788319
  • Name these cookies!
True or False

Test your knowledge - and maybe learn something along the way.

TAKE THE QUIZ
Bee Cubed

Test Your Knowledge - and learn some interesting things along the way.

TAKE THE QUIZ

Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!

Words at Play

Ask the Editors

Word Games