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 As for The Ghoul, more about his backstory before the Great War as Cooper Howard, a famous actor and Vault-Tec spokesperson, is revealed in a flashback scene. Kayla Keegan, Peoplemag, 19 Apr. 2024 Other than that, everything about Cam was fictional, and then therefore the whole [backstory with Rebecca also] was. Jessica Radloff, Glamour, 18 Apr. 2024 Among its revelations was a deeper understanding of Cliff Booth’s backstory and psychology. Borys Kit, The Hollywood Reporter, 17 Apr. 2024 Chang, in his podcast, explained the backstory behind Momofuku’s chili crunch, citing the brand Lao Gan Ma, known for its spicy chili crisp sauce, as one of the original inspirations for the product, in addition to other sauces including ssamjang and salsa macha. Rachel Askinasi, NBC News, 15 Apr. 2024 Garland doesn’t explain what led to the secession or much of the historical backstory, and even Offerman’s president isn’t onscreen enough to dig into any real-life inspirations, outside of some faux bluster in the face of certain defeat. Brian Truitt, USA TODAY, 10 Apr. 2024 The park framed that rapids ride with a backstory about the discovery of the river that flows through Silver Dollar City’s Marvel Cave, an actual 30-mile cavern that lies underneath the theme park. Robert Niles, Orange County Register, 5 Apr. 2024 Theming is de rigueur for a tiki bar, but this one includes an elaborate backstory and immersive decor tied to the tale of its sunken ship. Stephanie Breijo, Los Angeles Times, 3 Apr. 2024 Far more compelling are his backstory and ability to overcome personal tragedy. Barry Jackson, Miami Herald, 1 Apr. 2024

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'backstory.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

First Known Use

1982, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of backstory was in 1982

Dictionary Entries Near backstory

Cite this Entry

“Backstory.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/backstory. Accessed 26 Apr. 2024.

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