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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Vastnaut One assists these climbs by distributing force through both the hips and knees, helping propel the body upward more efficiently.—
New Atlas,
New Atlas,
30 Mar. 2026
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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
Verb
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Prior to the vote, local officials and other local leaders took no chances and got involved in a campaign that included social media ads and mailers to voters to communicate how the revenue benefits the city and helps cover an array of services.—
Chris Higgins,
Kansas City Star,
8 Apr. 2026
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Moisturizer Moisturizer hydrates your skin and helps maintain the skin barrier.—
Lauren Jarvis-Gibson,
Fort Worth Star-Telegram,
8 Apr. 2026
Cite this Entry
“Backstops.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/backstops. Accessed 10 Apr. 2026.
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