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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We are jerked between past and present as his backstory gets filled in, one jogged memory at a time. Justin Chang, New Yorker, 13 Mar. 2026 The backstory Part of Camino Real, a five-star Mexican hotel group known for its central locations and modern luxury ideal for business travelers, families, and friend groups alike, Camino Real Fashion Drive is the only property by the brand in Monterrey. Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 12 Mar. 2026 The pair reinvent themselves as California rappers, re-recording their tracks with American accents and fabricating a backstory that includes connections to Eminem. Hilary Lewis, HollywoodReporter, 10 Mar. 2026 The play certainly has an interesting backstory. Christopher Smith, Oc Register, 10 Mar. 2026 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 14 Mar. 2026.

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