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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This element aids the MEU with support such as medical and dental assistance, motor transport, supply, equipment maintenance and landings.—
George Petras,
USA Today,
18 Mar. 2026
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Sleep aids all work to help relax your body and improve your sleep in different ways.—
Kirstyn Hill,
Health,
13 Mar. 2026
Verb
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The position also assists in training curriculum development, revisions, and project coordination to support the training needs of county In Home Supportive Services staff and internal Adult Program Division staff.—
Sacbee.com,
Sacbee.com,
25 Mar. 2026
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Airport turmoil An airport agent assists travelers with the long lines early Monday morning at Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport.—
Adam Beam,
AJC.com,
23 Mar. 2026
Verb
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Regardless of the outcome, Thune said that the vote helps Republicans go back on offense after weeks of intraparty tensions over the SAVE America Act.—
David Sivak,
The Washington Examiner,
26 Mar. 2026
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Jerry Lewis was the executive director of the 1901 Community Implementation Committee, which helps coordinate project updates, community engagement and leadership connections associated with the 1901 Project, according to the committee’s website.—
Tess Kenny,
Chicago Tribune,
26 Mar. 2026
Cite this Entry
“Backstops.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/backstops. Accessed 31 Mar. 2026.
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