backstory

noun

back·​story ˈbak-ˌstȯr-ē How to pronounce backstory (audio)
: a story that tells what led up to the main story or plot (as of a film)

Examples of backstory in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
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The backstory Torel Palace Lisbon was the first property for the brand, opening in 2014. Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 3 Jan. 2026 The play is Henry’s backstory after he’s infected by the Mind Flayer. Kate Aurthur, Variety, 2 Jan. 2026 Did you guys decide on a backstory? Lily Ford, HollywoodReporter, 2 Jan. 2026 Each grail is accompanied by a fascinating backstory that details the design and development process, as well as spectacular images captured by the world’s top watch photographers. Rachel Cormack, Robb Report, 31 Dec. 2025 See All Example Sentences for backstory

Word History

First Known Use

1982, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of backstory was in 1982

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Cite this Entry

“Backstory.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/backstory. Accessed 11 Jan. 2026.

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