as in aids
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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Recent Examples of backstops
Senior goalkeeper Giada McGlynn backstops a defense led by juniors Payton Cable, Sophia Duncan and Kasey Glynn and sophomore Sahana Raju.
—
Matt Le Cren, Chicago Tribune, 12 Mar. 2026
Matt Le Cren, Chicago Tribune, 12 Mar. 2026
Recent Examples of Synonyms for backstops
Verb
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At the time, Aguilar had a job with Misericordia, which aids people with disabilities.—
Melinda Moore,
Chicago Tribune,
18 June 2026
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Researchers at the Technical University of Denmark (DTU) are now developing an onboard drone that aids rescues without human intervention.—
New Atlas,
New Atlas,
18 June 2026
Verb
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But the biggest milestone of the night was Clark reclaiming the top spot on the WNBA assists leaderboard.—
Alejandro Avila OutKick,
FOXNews.com,
17 June 2026
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Founded in 1975, Crisis Assistance Ministry assists families in the Charlotte area facing financial hardship.—
Laura Horne,
Charlotte Observer,
10 June 2026
Verb
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The physical connection is calming and helps bridge the gap between their world and yours.—
Kira Willey,
CNBC,
17 June 2026
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Don't worry about potential wardrobe malfunctions, as the skirt comes with a lining that helps prevent any possible see-through moments.—
Caroline Hughes,
Travel + Leisure,
17 June 2026
Cite this Entry
“Backstops.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/backstops. Accessed 21 Jun. 2026.
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