backgrounds

plural of background
1
as in backdrops
the physical conditions or features that form the setting against which something is viewed they got married on a mountain top with the sunset as background

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms

2
as in settings
the place and time in which the action for a portion of a dramatic work (as a movie) is set the background of that movie is the World War II era

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Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of backgrounds But in addition to higher earnings and better employment prospects, getting a degree is the ticket to social mobility, allowing graduates from diverse backgrounds to climb the economic ladder — an opportunity that is unmatched elsewhere. Jessica Dickler, CNBC, 30 Sep. 2025 But students of all races and backgrounds take Latinos in Action courses at Broward Schools, said School Board Chair Debra Hixon. Amanda Rosa, Miami Herald, 30 Sep. 2025 The Bulldozer Revolution that ousted Milošević was comprised of Serbs from a wide range of backgrounds, all determined to bring down an unpopular autocrat who put his own political survival above the needs of citizens. Hanna Begić, The Conversation, 29 Sep. 2025 Some assumptions are more plausible than others, but the fact remains that no two people can ever perfectly understand one another, let alone two people from completely different backgrounds. David Ehrlich, IndieWire, 29 Sep. 2025 Many GMs and team presidents possess scouting backgrounds. Brittany Ghiroli, New York Times, 29 Sep. 2025 Some expressed concern changes would weaken the system made to create more opportunity among students of diverse economic, racial, and other backgrounds. Grace Zokovitch, Boston Herald, 29 Sep. 2025 Artist Nguyen said teaching children of all backgrounds about culturally rich activities such as cyanotype art is fulfilling and special. Lauren Uppal, Mercury News, 29 Sep. 2025 And that new generation of authors are from more diverse backgrounds and identities, reflecting the increasing diversity in this country, at least. Charlotte Phillipp, PEOPLE, 28 Sep. 2025
Recent Examples of Synonyms for backgrounds
Noun
  • From cityscapes to picturesque state parks, the region offers multiple backdrops for soaking in fall’s fiery foliage.
    Diana Leyva, Nashville Tennessean, 22 Sep. 2025
  • Carolina, Kure, and Wrightsville beaches served as scenic backdrops, while the Cape Fear Country Club and the downtown shops captured Wilmington’s small-town charm.
    Abby Montanez, Robb Report, 19 Sep. 2025
Noun
  • Of the birthing facilities currently operating in Louisville, all are housed within hospital settings, according to the planning commission staff report.
    Killian Baarlaer, Louisville Courier Journal, 3 Oct. 2025
  • The rapid expansion of psychedelic therapy has surfaced risks, like inadequate facilitator training and questionable consent practices in unregulated settings.
    Sonia Singh, Rolling Stone, 3 Oct. 2025
Noun
  • The real mystery is why Task didn’t give us more scenes like this.
    Roxana Hadadi, Vulture, 6 Oct. 2025
  • Rayna James' house was located in Belle Meade, many scenes take place at the Bluebird Cafe, and other filming locations include Percy Warner Park, the Ryman Auditorium, Tootsies Orchid Lounge, The 5 Spot, The Parthenon at Centennial Park, The Grand Ole Opry, Biscuit Love, and more.
    Audrey Gibbs, Nashville Tennessean, 5 Oct. 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Backgrounds.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/backgrounds. Accessed 7 Oct. 2025.

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