BACKSTOP Synonyms: 86 Similar and Opposite Words

backstop

verb

as in to aid

to provide (someone) with what is useful or necessary to achieve an end the Nobel-winning geneticist was of course backstopped in his research by a team of highly talented assistants

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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 backstop In an email shared with the Herald Friday night, a spokesperson for Kraft Sports & Entertainment emphasized that Kraft Group has agreed to backstop the entire amount requested. —

Lance Reynolds, Boston Herald, 6 Mar. 2026 This hasn’t been his best season, but based on the film and his body of work, Bobrovsky is as likely as any goalie in the league to backstop a team to a deep playoff run. —

Jesse Granger, New York Times, 5 Mar. 2026 The federal government should backstop and, in some cases, override state decisions which are bad for children, families and teachers. —

Rebecca Noel, Charlotte Observer, 6 Feb. 2026 Earlier this month, MLB commissioner Rob Manfred said the league would backstop the teams that elected to cut ties with their RSNs. —

Anthony Crupi, Sportico.com, 30 Jan. 2026 See All Example Sentences for backstop

Recent Examples of Synonyms for backstop

Verb

After Russia launched its full-scale invasion of Ukraine, in February, 2022, Colby opposed the Biden Administration’s surge of arms, military assets, and munitions to aid the country in its fight.

— Garrett M. Graff, New Yorker, 14 Apr. 2026
One brief gives examples of how AI can aid in administrative work, such as by scheduling classroom visits.

— Jemma Stephenson, San Diego Union-Tribune, 13 Apr. 2026