plural backups
1
a
: a person or thing that can be used to replace or support another person or thing
His role on the team is to be a backup to the regular quarterback.
We have an extra radio as a backup in case this one doesn't work.
—often used before another nouna backup quarterback
We need a backup plan in case of emergency.
b
: help or support provided by additional people or things
The policeman called for backup [=called for other police to come and help him] because the suspect was carrying a gun.
We have an extra radio for backup.
He provides backup for the regular quarterback.
2
US
: a situation in which the flow of something (such as traffic) becomes blocked
There was a traffic backup [=(Brit) tailback] for miles on the road because of the accident.
There was a backup [=blockage] in the drain.
3
: a musical part that is sung to support the main singer
She sang backup on his CD.
—often used before another nouna backup singer
4
: a copy of information stored on a computer
Be sure to make a backup of your work.
—often used before another nouna backup file/copy
also
: the act or process of making such a copy
It may take some time for the backup to be complete.
Cite this Entry
“Backup.” Merriam-Webster.com Simple Definition, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/simple/backup. Accessed 19 Jun. 2026.
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